Sarah Arnaud
PhD student in Philosophy
Université du Québec à Montréal
Award-winning publication: Trouble du spectre de l'autisme : Une agentivité morale objective, rigoriste et émotionnelle
Published in: Bioéthique Online
Abstract
Sarah Arnaud's work is within the realms of philosophy and psychiatry. It relies on cognitive science to elucidate important ethical issues related to autism. By first highlighting the cognitive processes that underpin emotional understanding, the article constitutes a first step towards the better social inclusion of those with autism. By then analyzing how these processes operate, Sarah Arnaud's paper reveals that individuals with autism are aware of their emotions, contrary to what is sometimes asserted in autism research. It also confirms that persons with autism have objective understanding. By setting out premises that are key to understanding the legal responsibility of persons with autism, this article could effect change in the legal field.