In the intricate landscape of the human brain, the evaluation circuit emerges as a critical component, particularly in the context of autism. This article explores the nuances of this circuit and its implications in both autistic and general populations.
Autistic individuals often experience an incessant activation of their evaluation circuit. This phenomenon leads to constant, unnecessary evaluations of various aspects of life, contributing to a state of perpetual restlessness. Contrary to popular belief, the social difficulties commonly associated with autism are not the root cause but rather a consequence of this overactivity.
The perpetual engagement of the evaluation circuit in trivial matters not only causes restlessness but also hinders social interactions. This restlessness, misunderstood as poor social skills, is a direct result of the overactive circuit. This realization shifts the focus from social skills training to addressing the underlying neural activity.
Educational systems currently fail to address this overactive circuit, leaving many individuals with an underutilized evaluation system. This underutilization manifests in various forms, such as the misinterpretation of internal critical voices as depression. In reality, this inner voice is the evaluation circuit performing its function, assessing the quality of one’s activities and thoughts. Modern society’s misunderstanding labels this as depression, urging individuals to suppress it with medication rather than understanding and harnessing it.
The article emphasizes that true artistic and intellectual potential lies in embracing and refining this internal voice, rather than stifling it. For instance, in the realm of poetry, the journey to authenticity involves nurturing this critical voice to refine one’s craft, contrasting starkly with the societal trend of suppressing it with medication.
Autistic individuals, the article posits, might be further along in understanding this concept than the general population. Their overactive evaluation circuit, while causing restlessness and social challenges, also positions them closer to realizing their artistic potential. The article cites the example of James B. Jones, whose struggles in romantic endeavors were attributed to his relentless evaluation circuit, preventing him from finding peace and consequently, love.
This is a summary from the original argument, which can be read on substack:
Love on the Spectrum (2) – the evaluation circuit