Steve Silberman, Autism Advocate and 'NeuroTribes' Author, Dies at 66

Steve Silberman, a prominent journalist and author who significantly influenced the discourse on autism and disability rights, passed away on August 29, 2024, at his home in San Francisco. He was 66 years old. Silberman's husband, Keith Karraker, confirmed the news without specifying the cause of death.

Silberman's 2015 book "NeuroTribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity" became an unexpected bestseller, reshaping public understanding of autism. The work, which won the prestigious Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-Fiction, helped popularize the concept of neurodiversity – the idea that neurological differences are natural variations in human cognition rather than disorders to be cured.

Throughout his career, Silberman contributed to Wired magazine, exploring the intersection of science and popular culture. His 2001 article "The Geek Syndrome" marked the beginning of his journey into autism research, sparked by encounters with parents of autistic children in Silicon Valley.

"What autism really is is an enormous population of men and women with tremendous potential who are being denied what everyone deserves: the chance to live a happy, healthy, safe, secure and productive life."

Silberman's approach to autism was influenced by his experience as a gay man who grew up when homosexuality was criminalized and treated as a mental illness. This perspective informed his empathetic and rights-based approach to autism advocacy.

Born on December 23, 1957, in Ithaca, New York, Silberman was raised in a politically radical household. He graduated from Oberlin College in 1979 and later studied at the University of California at Berkeley. His diverse interests included Zen Buddhism, Beat poetry, and music, particularly the Grateful Dead.

Silberman's work extended beyond autism advocacy. He co-authored "Skeleton Key: A Dictionary for Deadheads" and was working on a book about cystic fibrosis treatment at the time of his death. His contributions to journalism and advocacy have left a lasting impact on the autism community and beyond.

Steve Silberman is survived by his husband, Keith Karraker, whom he married legally in 2008 after California legalized same-sex marriage, and his sister. His legacy continues to inspire advocates for neurodiversity and autism rights worldwide.