The name “Asperger” has long been associated with a particular diagnosis on the autism spectrum, but the history behind this term is deeply troubling. Dr. Hans Asperger, an Austrian paediatrician, played a significant role in shaping our understanding of autism. However, his work was intertwined with the rise of Nazism and its inhumane ideologies.
A Disturbing Legacy
Third Reich. Yet, evidence reveals that his work was inextricably linked with Nazi child psychiatry. His journey into this dark chapter of history began in 1934 when he visited Germany and encountered colleagues developing diagnostic criteria for children deemed socially inadequate by Nazi standards. Initially, Asperger opposed rigid classifications for children, cautioning against strict diagnostic criteria in 1937. However, following the Nazi annexation of Austria in 1938 and the subsequent purge of Jewish and liberal academics from the University of Vienna, Asperger introduced his own diagnosis: “autistic psychopathy.”
Asperger’s Diagnosis and Nazi Ideology
Asperger’s writings became increasingly aligned with Nazi ideology as he sought career advancement. He described children with “autistic psychopathy” in harsh terms, noting their “cruelty” and “sadistic traits.” He even referred to these children as “intelligent automata,” emphasising their lack of social connection and community spirit—qualities prized by the Nazi regime. While some argue that Asperger’s recognition of the “special abilities” in some autistic children was an attempt to protect them from Nazi eugenics, his selective empathy was consistent with the discriminatory practices of Nazi psychiatry. Asperger warned that less favourable cases would grow up to be societal burdens, described in grotesque terms.
The Consequences of Asperger’s Work
The implications of Asperger’s work during the Third Reich were dire. Words like his could, and did, lead to deadly outcomes. The Nazi regime initiated its first mass extermination programme in July 1939, targeting children deemed unfit due to physical, mental, or behavioural defects. Many of the children Asperger evaluated were among those murdered.
Reflecting on Our Terminology
As we continue to use terms like “Asperger syndrome,” it is crucial to acknowledge the dark history behind them. The official diagnosis of Asperger disorder has been removed from the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, but it remains in the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Diseases and is widely used in popular culture. Understanding the man behind the name “Asperger” forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about the intersection of medical science and political ideology. It also raises important questions about how we honour and remember historical figures.
Moving Forward
For our community in Manchester and beyond, it is essential to reflect on the language we use and the figures we honour. Recognising the full history of terms like “Asperger” can lead to a more inclusive and respectful understanding of autism and its spectrum. As we move forward, let’s ensure our terminology reflects both scientific accuracy and ethical responsibility.
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