Hans Asperger and Nazi Eugenics: The History We Need to Face

Understanding the history of autism requires facing the harm created by eugenics, institutional power and diagnostic systems. This session approaches that history carefully and connects it to language and practice today.

You will leave with historical context, more careful language and a stronger ethical lens for current practice.

Who it’s for

This webinar is for neurodivergent professionals who want practical insight into their own working lives, and for managers, HR and People teams, DEI and L&D professionals, educators, coaches, practitioners, colleagues and allies who want to make neuroinclusion more informed and useful. You do not need a diagnosis or prior specialist knowledge to attend.

What you’ll explore

• The historical context around Hans Asperger and Nazi-era eugenics
• How diagnostic narratives were shaped by power, survival and exclusion
• Why this history still matters to autistic identity and terminology
• How to discuss contested history without erasing people or simplifying evidence

How the session works

Explore research and lived experience through anonymous polls, short games, realistic scenarios and optional reflection. Participate by voice, chat or polls, or simply listen. There is no cold-calling and cameras are optional.

ACCESSIBILITY AND PARTICIPATION

Live automated captions are available. Cameras and microphones are optional. You can participate by voice, chat, anonymous Mentimeter activities or quiet reflection, and you may pass, pause or step away at any time. To discuss another access need, use Eventbrite’s Contact the organiser option. Please do not include private medical information in public questions.

ABOUT THE FACILITATOR

Nat Hawley is the founder of Divergent Thinking, a UK neuroinclusion consultancy. Nat combines neurodivergent lived experience, an MSc in Applied Neuroscience and extensive workplace delivery experience. His approach turns research and real-world insight into clear, ethical and practical action.

ABOUT DIVERGENT THINKING

Divergent Thinking helps organisations turn good intentions into practical neuroinclusion through evidence-informed training, consultancy, coaching, workplace needs assessments and audits.

Explore Divergent Thinking’s neuroinclusion training, consultancy and support

Content note: this session discusses eugenics, Nazi persecution, disability discrimination and death.

This educational webinar cannot assess or diagnose anyone and does not replace individual clinical, legal or therapeutic advice.

A recording will be shared with everyone who registers. A free attendance certificate is available on request after the live session.