The Rosie Result (Don Tillman, #3)

by Graeme Simsion

Objectivity and intelligence might suggest that I thought some academics lacked these attributes, which was true, but probably tactless.

“Do I get to argue, or will that interrupt the briefing?” “It’ll interrupt the briefing. I’m right anyway, so no point arguing.

I love Rosie

She extended her hand and I shook it, matching the light pressure that I knew to anticipate from most females and trying to suppress the thought that we were facilitating virus transmission.

2020 mood

“Why is Nan always so sad?” People with autism are poor at recognizing others’ emotions. “Because Pa is ill.” It was the logical answer, but it was possible that my mother had been sad for sixteen years—since my sister died. It was not something I had noticed.

For many years I had ignored sports, but Dave had encouraged an interest in baseball and I had slowly acquired the ability to engage emotionally with the outcome of a contest that had no direct bearing on my life.

I had learned, reluctantly and over many years, that rational argument seldom overcame irrational resistance.

“If you’re intellectually capable, it’s advisable to become an expert on your own body and treatments,” I said. “Medical practitioners observe you far less frequently than you observe yourself. Also, they care less. With children and people with diminished cognitive function, we may need to take that role on their behalf.”

I had observed that neurotypicals criticized autistic people for lacking empathy—towards them—but seldom made any effort to improve their own empathy towards autistic people.

None of us is expert in all situations. It is a sign of intelligence to recognize our limitations and of maturity to seek help when required.