In a significant shift, Professor Simon Baron-Cohen—the researcher behind the controversial "extreme male brain" theory of autism—now says the phrase itself was unhelpful and has become a harmful myth.

Baron-Cohen's original theory suggested autistic traits aligned with exaggerated male characteristics and lacked empathy. He now acknowledges this language was misunderstood and perpetuated damaging stereotypes about autistic people. The correction comes as growing research and lived experience from autistic communities demonstrate that autistic individuals possess deep capacity for empathy, though they may express it differently. Read the full story →

Today's takeaway: When science evolves, so should our understanding—this correction helps break down harmful stereotypes and celebrates the diverse ways people connect with one another.