In GWS, does it make sense…?
to promote equality by discussing issues that affect all of us?
If you’re not here for equality, then simply don’t respond.
I’ve grown very concerned that autism will prove to be like mesothelioma, i.e., that we will ultimately discover that autism is directly caused by some common substance (like a flame retardent or insecticide), just like mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos. Get rid of asbestos and mesothelioma goes away. Get rid of XYZ substance and autism goes away.
I’m concerned that we as human beings are leaving a natural wilderness (as we cultivate civilization) only to create a new one.
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7 comments
Josh G on September 3, 2010 at 9:14 am
Just to clarify, your question is not about what could causing autism, but what are we creating as social environment, yes?
Well, the existence of the term ‘concrete jungle,’ and all that it implies says that, yes, we are creating an outgrowth of a dangerous wilderness that is, in fact, just as dangerous (if not more so, depending on the example) that the natural one.
The examples you site work very well. How can you trust your society (as opposed to uncivilized savagery) when you know your social structure is not enough to keep you safe. Who trusts the government? The police? Large corporations? The medical industry?
Your concern is, in my opinion, certainly valid. Hopefully, we will become a species that is sentient enough, aware enough, informed enough, to do better, but I must ask… is that natural?
What I mean is, since we only grow (mentally, physically, or spiritually, take your pick) from strife and adversity, are we not just creating new obstacles to overcome, new challenges that shape the skills and abilities we will have? I, like you, do question: What exactly are we trying to develop to have built this jungle this way?
ren on September 3, 2010 at 9:14 am
I do think that we are creating an uninhabitable world for ourselves and our children. We have upset the balance.
In Canada, it is mandatory that children get vacinations. They cannot be enrolled in school without getting them. I struggled with that because I have read a lot of studies that suggest that autism MAY be linked to these shots.
I share your fears, however, people do not want to change their lifestyle. They want all the SUV’s and fast food and all of the modern conveniences and if the result of that is not a direct threat then it is not on their radar as a threat at all. People are so quick to attack smokers, but the reality is that pollution in our air and water, central air and forced air furnaces, synthetic fibers and processed food are much wore for our health and the health of our children. Like I said, if there is not a clear and direct threat, people choose to look the other way.
Rio Madeira on September 3, 2010 at 9:14 am
Autism is caused by men and masculine women (feminists) having kids and giving birth to hyper masculine brained children.
My brother has autism. I focus on one subject (feminism), don’t understand much of anything else and I’m socially dysfunctional.
I probably have mild autism.
kate lomax on September 3, 2010 at 9:14 am
I am tired.
I have with the humblest of intentions viewed questions such as yours many times.
I humbly submit you read past posts on here and you will get your answer.
Steven D on September 3, 2010 at 9:14 am
It’s hard to say. It’s possible that autism is being caused through environmental factors, but it’s also possible that it is being diagnosed in greater numbers. Perhaps in decades past, autisitcs were diagnosed as being retarded, insane, etc.
I do think that the connection with Thimerosal (mercury preservative in vaccinations) is real. Fortunately, for those concerned, it has been removed from all major vaccinations except for the flu vaccine. My kiddo doesn’t get the flu shot, but has gotten all the rest.
Rio Madeira on September 3, 2010 at 9:14 am
It would make sense to discuss issues relating to gender, since that’s what this forum is for; however, we can take breaks occasionally.
The fact is that we need to clean up our environment and dispose of toxic substances as much as we can. It doesn’t even matter why — rarely, if ever, will they benefit anyone.
Rainbow on September 3, 2010 at 9:14 am
There is the suggestion that autism is caused by vaccinations given to infants. But it doesn’t happen with every infant, so who’s to say what it really is?
My cousin in autistic, and it is a real shame to "lose" someone.