Over Focus on Productivity

Mainstream discussions around remote and hybrid employment models often focus on productivity, or the perceived reduced networking and socialization.

Paradoxically, these very reasons serve to increase productivity for many disabled people, including the autism community.

- Hari Srinivasan, Fortune

 Read full article at https://fortune.com/2023/07/27/flexible-work-critics-using-same-arguments-were-used-oppose-disabled-ramps-closed-captioning-equity-access-never-optional-remote-work-careers-hari-srinivasan/

 

It is not the same being given enough time to finish an exam, in a setting that is conducive to focusing on answering the exam

Article Link: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/giving-voice/202410/how-reasonable-are-reasonable-accommodations-at-work

In education and in the workplace, appropriate accommodations are crucial for people to learn and to perform at their best. This article tackles the "reasonable" piece of the ADA rule. Who decides what "reasonable" is?

Even when accommodations are nominally given, the quality of the accommodation can vary immensely. It is not the same being given enough time to finish an exam, in a setting that is conducive to focusing on answering the exam, than having "1.5x" the time in a room with noisy people, in the middle of a lab, or in the professor's office, under the professor's gaze.

The article was written by Hari Srinivasan, who is a fellow member of the College Autism Network 

In-person employment in autism

https://fortune.com/2023/07/27/flexible-work-critics-using-same-arguments-were-used-oppose-disabled-ramps-closed-captioning-equity-access-never-optional-remote-work-careers-hari-srinivasan/

 

Disability and Multilingualism

Growing up, Hari Srinivasan remembers repeatedly learning about St. Patrick’s Day in his special education classroom—a holiday that, while interesting, felt disconnected from his own cultural heritage.

Read Full Article at unesco.org...

 

 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/giving-voice/202402/the-spectrum-of-loss-grief-through-the-autistic-lens

Read at https://time.com/6299599/autism-research-limited-essay/

"Many autistics like me [are...] excluded from autism research due to the complexity of our issues, or because of the research methods used."

-Hari Srinivasan, Time

 

Genetic Differences Between Autism and ADHD—and Why It Matters

Genetic Differences Between Autism and ADHD—and Why It Matters

On the surface, autism and ADHD might look like they share some overlapping behaviors, especially in areas like attention and impulsivity. But beneath those similarities, the genetic research on each reveals fundamental differences. And with more people receiving both diagnoses (often called AuDHD), genetic research is starting to explore how these conditions interact in the same person.

READ ON HERE. 

Exclusion of those with more complex needs

 "Key concerns.... oversimplification of needs and the potential exclusion of those with more complex challenges when focusing solely on strengths and well-being. This approach risks neglecting the intricate support required by many on the spectrum. " - Hari Srinivasan 

https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/aut.2024.38246.pw

 Read at https://www.newsweek.com/dual-approach-autism-opinion-1818062

"We must dispel the notion that any medical intervention is inherently harmful. Many autistic peers I know experience chronic sleep deprivation, multiple seizures, pain, autoimmune conditions... spend the entire night on the toilet due to gut issues... engage in intense self-injurious behaviors, aggressive behaviors, and frequent meltdowns, which leave them home-bound. Living in a state of chronic unwellness is not conducive for inclusion. The quality of life for such autistics is challenging, no matter what kind of societal supports (inadequate as they are currently), or opportunities are put in place for inclusion."

- Hari Srinivasan, Newsweek

 

Why is 108 scientifically and mathematically special

108 combines properties from number theory, geometry, natural patterns, and even astrophysics—qualities that give it an almost “universal” significance in mathematics and beyond

• Astrophysical Significance: In astronomy, the average distance between the Earth and Sun is about 108 times the diameter of the Sun. Similarly, the average distance between the Earth and the Moon is about 108 times the Moon’s diameter. This coincidence has intrigued scientists, as it means the Sun and Moon appear roughly the same size in the sky, allowing for the phenomenon of total solar eclipses.
• Harshad Number Charm: In number theory, 108 is a Harshad number, meaning it’s divisible by the sum of its digits (1 + 0 + 8 = 9), making it "harmonic" in certain mathematical operations. Harshad numbers are used in digital root and modular arithmetic, which simplifies calculations in areas from coding to cryptography.'
• Fibonacci and Spirals: The sum of the first 12 Fibonacci numbers is exactly 108, connecting it to the Fibonacci sequence, which appears in natural patterns like spirals in shells, hurricanes, and galaxies. This gives 108 a presence in some of the most visually and mathematically profound patterns in the universe.
• Tetrahedral and Centered Figures: 108 is a tetrahedral number, representing a 3D shape with triangular faces. Imagine stacking spheres in a pyramid with a triangular base; 108 is the total number of spheres in a four-layer pyramid. This concept ties into molecular structures and 3D modeling.
• Geometry and Symmetry: 108 degrees is the internal angle of a regular pentagon, meaning it’s a foundational angle in geometry tied to fivefold symmetry. Pentagonal symmetry is rare in nature and geometry, often appearing in atomic structures and biological formations like flowers and certain viruses.

Social Capital

Autism Lexicon: Social Capital

Social capital is the value derived from social networks, relationships, and community trust that enable cooperation and support. In autism, building social capital can be challenging due to differences in communication and social interactions, but it is crucial for fostering inclusion and improving quality of life... Read More.... 

Caught Between Tears and Stoicism

In a world where emotional expression is often suppressed or critiqued, especially in public figures and their families, his response is a refreshing reminder of our shared humanity.

Read Full Article at

 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/giving-voice/202409/caught-between-tears-and-stoicism

Comment: 

Hari, this is incredible. It is both beautiful and meaningful in its humanity, as well as being an exceptionally important message for inclusion - how you manage to do those two things at once is something I am extremely inspired by!

 

Full List of Awardees

 https://www.aucd.org/conference/awards