Autistic White Males in a Neurotypical Society: A Perspective on Privilege and Discrimination

As a Caucasian autistic male, my experience reflects the broader social dynamics of privilege and discrimination within Western societies. The term 'white privilege' can often be misleading, and it is important to clarify the nuances of this concept.

The Myth of White Privilege

There is no such thing as 'white privilege' as it is often misconstrued. Instead, we should refer to it as 'white advantage.' My privilege does not come from being white; rather, it is derived from being less likely to experience ethnic discrimination compared to people of color. This is a factual statement rooted in the epidemiological and societal realities of discrimination.

Intersectionality and Real-World Disparities

The term 'white privilege' is often used in oversimplified ways that do not fully address the complex interplay of various forms of discrimination and disadvantage. In reality, the level of privilege or lack thereof can vary significantly based on factors such as economic status, education, and environment. A celebrity in a major city or a wealthy individual may indeed have more privilege than an impoverished white person in regions like Central Appalachia or the Rust Belt. Similarly, the same principle applies to individuals on the autistic spectrum. A wealthy autistic person would have more privilege than a neurotypical individual without financial resources, and vice versa.

Empathy and Contempt in Social Movements

The term 'white privilege' can breed contempt among those who feel misrepresented. It is important to acknowledge the validity of these feelings. Not everyone experiences the same level of privilege or discrimination. For instance, a person living in the jungles of Vietnam with limited resources may not have the same privilege as someone living in Western society. Similarly, a family in a tar paper shack or a person dying of cancer has a vastly different experience of privilege than most in the Western world.

Personal Experience and Statistical Analysis

Recently, I performed a privilege test and found that I was in the 94th percentile. However, when I specified characteristics like being profoundly disabled, penniless, and homeless, being a migrant, and being a Muslim, my statistical representation dropped to the 60th percentile. This stark contrast underscores the importance of understanding that privilege is not a static concept but one that is influenced by multiple factors. It also highlights the limitations of such tests in providing a comprehensive picture of an individual's experience.

Ultimately, the discourse around privilege and discrimination must be inclusive and nuanced. It is essential to recognize the unique experiences of different individuals and the complex interplay of factors that shape these experiences.