Dear Editor

I just watched a video from the Royal Institution featuring Beronda Montgomery who is a plant biologist from the United States. She has an interesting idea about how to support people who are struggling. And I think this relates directly to the experiences of autistic people.

During her talk, Dr Montgomery gives an example of two genetically identical plants which develop very differently based on their environment. While describing the outcome, Dr Montgomery draws a philosophical conclusion which is that the environment is responsible for the success or failure of these identical plants.

This specific example involving plants demonstrates the large impact that the environment has on organisms. I think part of the problem that autistic people face is hostility. To some people, it might seem as though autistic people are not taking personal responsibility. I think it is important to understand that autism is not a moral failure. And I see the example of the plants as a non-threatening way to demonstrate that a good person can still fail if they are ill-suited for the environment they find themselves in.

Dr Montgomery’s approach gives advocates a constructive way to evaluate their options. If we agree that autistic people deserve dignity and security. And we agree that autistic people are good. Then it would be helpful to have a rule of thumb that can help us to select from among our options. Dr Montgomery’s focus on the environment helps us choose. If we are faced with two options — one where the person must change or one where the environment must change — then we can choose the one focused on the environment. That is where I think we can do the most good. And it is the approach where we preserve the dignity of the person who needs help.

Dr Montgomery’s talk gives me hope. I have an autism diagnosis. And I feel as though I’ve exhausted my personal talents and resources while trying to address my developmental problems. I feel as though a focus on the environment and on the dignity of those involved is what can help me now.

I think the change Dr Montgomery advocates can soften the view others have of autistic people and give advocates a way of evaluating their options which will be more productive. Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts and feelings with you today. 

Michael