Authoring Autism: On Rhetoric and Neurological Queerness

M. Remi Yergeau defines neurodivergence as an identity—neuroqueerness—rather than an impairment, challenging stereotypes and cognitive studies scholarship. They present an alternative view of autistic rhetoricity by foregrounding the cunning rhetorical abilities of autistics and framing autism as a narrative condition.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 05 January 2018
Publisher: Duke University Press

In her groundbreaking book, "Authoring Autism," M. Remi Yergeau takes a bold and innovative approach to understanding neurodiversity, challenging the traditional notion of autism as an impairment. Instead, she defines neurodivergence as an identity—neuroqueerness—that encompasses the unique ways in which individuals with autism experience the world. Yergeau employs a queer theory framework to examine the pervasive stereotypes that deny autistic people their humanity and the opportunity to define themselves on their terms. She also critiques the dominant cognitive studies scholarship, which perpetuates the notion of autistics as passive and lacking agency. Moreover, Yergeau raises concerns about early intensive behavioral interventions, which bear similarities to gay conversion therapy, and questions the ableist privileging of intentionality and diplomacy in rhetorical traditions.

To present an alternative view of autistic rhetoricity, Yergeau employs the powerful method of storying. Through this approach, she highlights the remarkable rhetorical abilities of autistics, emphasizing their unique perspectives and insights. By framing autism as a narrative condition, Yergeau argues that autistics are best equipped to define their own experiences. She contends that autism represents a queer way of being that embraces and rejects the rhetorical, challenging the established boundaries between rhetoric, humanity, and agency.

In her book, Yergeau demonstrates how autistic people queer the lines of rhetoric, humanity, and agency. She shows how autistics use their rhetorical skills to subvert expectations, challenge norms, and advocate for their rights. By doing so, they disrupt the dominant narratives and create new spaces for self-expression and empowerment.

Yergeau's work is a groundbreaking contribution to the field of autism studies. It challenges the dominant paradigms and offers a fresh perspective on neurodiversity. Through her innovative approach, she provides a roadmap for reconceptualizing rhetorics and creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all individuals, regardless of their neurodiversity.

Weight: 468g
Dimension: 232 x 176 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780822370208