The Ethics of Autism: Among Them, But Not of Them

Autism is one of the most compelling, controversial, and heartbreaking cognitive disorders. It presents unique philosophical challenges as well, raising intriguing questions in philosophy of mind, cognitive science, and philosophy of language that need to be explored if the autistic population is to be responsibly served. Starting from the theory of mind thesis that a fundamental deficit in autism is the inability to recognize that other persons have minds, Deborah R. Barnbaum considers its implications for the nature of consciousness, our understanding of the consciousness of others, meaning theories in philosophy of language, and the modality of mind. This discussion lays the groundwork for consideration of the value of an autistic life, as well as the moral theories available to persons with autism. The book also explores questions about genetic decision making, research into the nature of autism, and the controversial quest for a cure. This is a timely and wide-ranging book on a disorder that commends itself to serious ethical examination.

Author: Deborah R. Barnbaum
Publisher: Indiana University Press
Published: 09/17/2008
Pages: 248
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.95lbs
Size: 9.10h x 6.00w x 0.70d
ISBN: 9780253220134
Award: Independent Publisher Book Awards - Bronze Medal Winner

Review Citation(s):
Chronicle of Higher Education 01/23/2009 pg. 19
Choice 06/01/2009

About the Author

Deborah R. Barnbaum is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Kent State University and editor (with Michael Byron) of Research Ethics: Text and Readings. She lives in Kent, Ohio.