Abstract, Valorizing Autism
- Jordan Birkner
- Apr 5
- 2 min read
"Valorizing Autism: Conceptualizing ASD as Instrumentally Valuable" was presented by Jordan Birkner on April 5, 2025, at "Dimensions of Difference" conference at Beacon University in Leesburg, Florida. Manuscript coauthored by Gary Comstock and Jordan Birkner.
Abstract:
In this paper, we argue for the instrumental value of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by drawing in part on the personal insights of the coauthor diagnosed with ASD. We employ the two most widely-accepted research methods in philosophy, conceptual analysis and argument evaluation.
ASD has significant instrumental value and this understanding can lead to rich human goods in three categories; 1) Improved understanding of the complexity and diversity of human phenomenology; 2) Improved accommodations for individuals with similar challenges; 3) Inspirational models of self-advocacy for autistic and non-autistic persons. One can affirm these goods without endorsing the further claim that autism is intrinsically valuable.
After defending our thesis we respond to two objections; autism is intrinsically valuable as a way of being in its own right and that autism is intrinsically valuable for the autistic person. We explain these criticisms, rebut them, and conclude that the way to valorize autism is not to defend it as essential to one’s identity. Claiming that ASD is valuable in its own right threatens to undermine the experiences and challenges those with disabilities face. Instead, we should affirm the intrinsic value of persons with ASD while identifying the various goods to which autism itself can lead.
Claims for ASD’s intrinsic value are most charitably interpreted as claims about the relative value of ASD for its role in the production of other human goods. These other goods are separable from ASD which, as a diagnostic category, designates a disability that causes impairment for the autistic person. Recognizing this validates the lived experiences of autistic people while supporting positive societal changes.
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