Doctor Who is Autistic (Episode 30)

Never be cruel. Never be cowardly. Hate is always foolish. Love is always wise. Always try to be nice, but never fail to be kind. Human progress isn't measured by industry, it’s measured by the value you place on a life, an unimportant life, a life without privelege.

Autistic hosts, Dr. Angela Lauria and Matt Lowry LPP, delve into the incredible world of Doctor Who and its significant impact on the Autistic community.

The Doctor's unique way of perceiving and interacting with the universe, and their tendency to form deep connections with their companions resonates with people on the autism spectrum. The show's ability to tackle complex moral and ethical dilemmas also speaks to autistic people’s passion for justice and understanding.

“We have to do what is right regardless of what the rules are because that's the thing—if the rules do what is right then we have no problem with it because it's fair and just. If the rules go against what is right, we have to get creative and do what is absolutely morally right. And that's—that is—the way of our people.” —Matt

Long-time Doctor Who fans, Peter Capaldi and David Tennant, eventually got to play the Doctor, fully realizing their childhood dreams and bringing an autistic sense of kindness and morality to the role.

The show allows for examining details and obscure trivia, which appeals to autistic data hunger. It also features time travel, aliens, and complex world-building.

“We do love a little arcane trivia. I think that's part of what makes the Doctor Who world partly part of our Autistic culture is there is more arcane trivia than you can shake a stick at.” —Angela

The Doctor's regeneration allows for different portrayals, making it easier for autistic individuals to see themselves in different iterations of the show's protagonist. Doctor Who's emphasis on embracing diversity and celebrating differences has fostered a safe space for autistic fans to connect, share, and grow.

Join Angela and Matt on this week’s virtual culture trip as they celebrate the extraordinary connection between Doctor Who and Autistic Culture, examining the profound impact this iconic show has had on countless lives and why it holds a special place in the hearts of many in the Autistic community.

Which Doctor best represents Autistic Culture to you? Tell us in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your answer on your social media and connect with other listeners!

• Biopic about Doctor Who

• Peter Capaldi’s drawing of Tom Baker

• The Doctor’s Speech in the Zygon Inversion

• Silence in the Library | Doctor Whohttps://www.doctorwho.tv › stories › silence-in-the-library

• Doctor Who: 10 Things You Never Knew About Peter Capaldi

• The Transformation Of David Tennant From Childhood To Doctor Who

• Peter Capaldi: I Turned Down Doctor Who | DVD Launch Q&A | Doctor Who

• Things Only Superfans Know About Doctor Who

• Doctor Who Secretly Introduced The 45th (& Final) Doctor

• 'I watched him on TV as the hero': David Tennant's adopted son Ty, 17, relives moment he met his dad aged 5 and why he would love to be the third Doctor in the family

Episode 10: Star Trek is Autistic

Episode 04: Industrial Light & Magic is Autistic (the company that made Star Wars)

• Check us out on Instagram

• Find us on Apple podcasts and Spotify

• Learn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPP

• Matt’s social media: Autistic Connections Facebook Group

• Learn more about Angela at AngelaLauria.com and Difference Press

• Angela’s social media: Twitter and TikTok

• TACP’s Autism-affirming TeePublic merch shop

Find these designs and more in our shop! (link above)