The Idiot: His Place in Creation, and His Claims on Society

"The Idiot: His Place in Creation, and His Claims on Society" by Frederick Bateman is a scientific exploration from the 1800s that shines a light on individuals then labeled as "idiots," pushing for better understanding and care from society. Drawing from his medical knowledge and work with the Eastern Counties' Asylum for Idiots, the author seeks to dispel common myths about idiocy and its origins. The book starts with a speech promoting the asylum, highlighting the need to acknowledge the rights of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Bateman argues that misunderstanding stems from a lack of knowledge about the condition and its possible improvements. He investigates the different elements that can cause idiocy, like genes and surrounding factors, building a case for why studying the subject is important for doctors, charities, religious leaders, and economists, as it affects human growth and society's moral duties.