[ksmiley]

> When you argue that Sheldon is a “totally accurate portrayal of someone on the autistic spectrum,” then you have broadened the definition of autism to the point where you have rendered the word meaningless.

How so? It's called the "autism _spectrum_", after all, so it's natural that there are varying levels of severity among those affected. Sheldon having high-functioning autism doesn't somehow invalidate anyone else from having more severe autism.

> That seriously offends me. It offends me on behalf of the mothers and fathers who are living with autistic children [...]

To me, this smells like a pre-emptive ad hominem against those with an opposing viewpoint. If you disagree with me, then you've offended me, you're disrespectful, you're ignorant. If you want to argue that Sheldon doesn't have autism, that's fine. But if you do, then keep in mind that part of your audience _does_ think he has autism. Why would you attack the people you're trying to convince?

[danielweber]

I know someone with an Asperger's son she couldn't figure out, and she was told to watch Sheldon for a few episodes. She came back and said, "okay, I understand what's going on in my son's head a lot better now."

I'm sure that would make some people fly into a rage, but the depiction helped her figure things out from his perspective.