Episode 7: Apple is Autistic

A: So ruffling the feathers is the Autistic rite of passage. M: It really is. A: I don't know how many birds we go through, but we are always ruffling feathers, man.

In this episode of The Autistic Culture Podcast:

Autism is an essential ingredient in the Apple success story. From the first button-less mouse, to the excruciating attention to detail of ever bevel and chamfer, we see the logical output of a highly connected brain in everything Apple produced under Steve Jobs.

Job embraced autism clothing in a personal uniform of black turtlenecks and jeans, reflecting Autistic desires for simplicity, comfort, and consistency. His strong dislike of buttons also aligned with Autistic aversions.

Jobs became obsessed with details like industrial design and color shades—much to the annoyance of his employees. This hyperfocus and need for precision is common among Autistics.

The podcast hosts argue Jobs was direct, not manipulative like a narcissist. He simply saw problems clearly and wanted to fix them, though his communication style upset others.

M: We see a difference. We understand the difference. There's a reason behind this.
A: And it's part of what makes Autistic Culture have some of the greatest contributions to humanity, like the touchless—the magic touchscreens of Apple! 
M: Exactly, exactly. Because you can't half-ass a revolution and changing the world.

Jobs practiced Zen Buddhism and combined its “empty” mindset with his interest in computers, pioneering innovative products like the iPad. Autistics often make these creative connections between their special interests and create something the world has never seen before.

Apple's iconic "Think Different" ad celebrated misfits and troublemakers who change the world. On this virtual culture trip, Autistic hosts feel this campaign perfectly represents the Autistic spirit and Autistic contributions to society.

What’s your experience working under neurotypical oversight? Tell us about it in the comments!

Show notes & resources:

What’s another company, centered around one Autistic man, that changed media as we know it? Episode 26: Disney is Autistic

Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson

The Iconic Think Different Apple ad

Was Steve Jobs Autistic?

Steve Jobs’ Commitment to Great Design

Related Episodes:

Episode 33: Andy Warhol is Autistic

Episode 41: Tim Burton is Autistic

and learn about the Autistic architect Benjamin Banneker and his Autistic friend, Thomas Jefferson in Episode 05: Washington, D.C. is Autistic

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Find us on Apple podcast 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

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

*Note: Transcription technology is still new on this platform. We are aware of the gaps and errors in the transcript and are dedicated to editing it for accuracy as soon as the new technology allows. We appreciate your patience as we work to expand accessibility as quickly as we are able. 

**TACP recognizes that ABA for autism is harmful to Autistic mental health. We reject the use of ABA therapy and pathologizing language like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and associated functioning labels as well as the harmful monolith: Autism speaks. To learn more, please listen to: Episode 20: Sesame Street is Autistic and Episode 24: The Trouble with Temple Grandin.