Spock vs. Data: Who is the true autistic icon of Star Trek?
Hello All! The title of this post might seem a bit silly. Honestly, I've been dealing with a lot of stress and fatigue lately and I've had this idea for several months so I decided to go for a light hearted post today. However, I do think this is an interesting conversation, especially for an autistic Trekkie like myself. Over the last year or so Star Trek has become a huge special interest and comfort show for me, having been introduced to it during a very difficult time by some very special and important people. Spock has been adopted by many as an autistic icon for some time now. His literal thinking, difficulties with interaction and rigid behaviours are relatable for many on the spectrum. This has been undoubtedly strengthened by the questionable and unspoken portrayal of Dr Sheldon Cooper as autistic in The Big Bang Theory. For Sheldon Spock is not only a relatable character but a hero and role model. It is clear that Sheldon wants to be more like Spock than he already