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It is a misleading term due to the fact that the so called "idiot" part of the syndrome came about because of the poor social adjustment of these individuals (as a result of what is now perceived as an autism spectrum disorder). The "savant" part of the syndrome was so designated, due to the fact that very specific and in-depth knowledge in a narrow area of study occurred. For example, some individuals could be given any year, month and date, and rapidly calculate (in their heads) what day of the week this would have fallen on.

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Q: Why was the old term idiot savant actually misleading?
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First, I suggest reading "Born on a Blue day" by Daniel Tammet. The author is Autistic Savant and the book is about his experience with the syndrome. A definition from MedicineNet.com is: Autistic savant: A person with autism who is exceptionally gifted in a specialized field. That field may, for example, be mathematics. The autistic savant may be able to do rapid, complex mental calculations. Or the field may be music. The autistic savant may be able to perform a entire piece of music after hearing it only once. The term "autistic savant" has replaced the old term "idiot savant," which is perjorative and imprecise. A savant (from the French savoir, to know) is a sage, a learned person.


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