Exploring Theory of Mind and its applicability to both autistic and non-autistic individuals. Reflecting on the character of Milton from Office Space and questioning if he is autistic. Discussing the challenges autistic individuals face in understanding neurotypical communication. Sharing personal experiences of an autistic employee with a boss who did not understand them.
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Quick takeaways
The movie 'Office Space' provides insight into the neurotic behavior and difficulty asserting oneself that may be common among autistic individuals.
The concept of Theory of Mind is questioned, suggesting that it may be neurotypical individuals who lack a theory of autistic minds, highlighting the challenges of understanding the reasoning behind others' actions and the importance of direct communication in the neurotypical world.
Deep dives
Milton's Struggles and Neuroticism
The podcast explores the character of Milton from the movie 'Office Space' and highlights his neurotic behavior, introversion, and difficulty asserting himself. Despite not being explicitly stated, Milton's traits suggest that he may be autistic. His passive-aggressive boss constantly taunts him and takes away his beloved red stapler, which affects Milton's mental state and ultimately contributes to the outcome of the movie.
Understanding Theory of Mind
The episode delves into the concept of theory of mind and how it impacts autistic individuals. It questions whether autistics truly lack the ability to understand what others are thinking or if neurotypical individuals have a theory of autistic minds. The host cites personal experiences where she struggles to decipher the reasoning behind people's actions and whether to rely on their words or actions. The importance of direct communication and the challenges of reading between the lines in the neurotypical world are also discussed.
Debunking Theory of Mind Research
The podcast challenges the notion that autistics lack theory of mind based on early research that suggested so. The host highlights that newer research has critiqued the validity of theory of mind tests, asserting that they don't accurately assess an individual's ability to understand others' mental states. It emphasizes the need for more nuanced and accurate understanding of how autistic and neurotypical minds interact and communicate.
This episode examines the idea of Theory of Mind and whether it applies to autistics and non-autistics alike. Listen and decide for yourself whether Theory of Mind is real and if it can ever be accurate.
__________
*I really do have a red Swingline stapler. __________
SPOILER ALERT (THE ENDING OF THE MOVIE):
How it ends: Not all of the facts are discussed in this episode and the movie has more than one story line. As to Milton, he finally gets fed up and angry that his boss and co-workers fail to take him seriously. Having been denied his red stapler and stepped on too often Milton burns down the building where he worked resulting in the demise of the company.
The movie “Office Space” has become a cult classic well worth watching. __________