The prevalence of autism among professional mathematicians and theoretical physicists is a topic that has been studied to some extent, but it is important to note that the research in this area is limited and inconclusive. Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition, and its relationship with mathematical and scientific abilities is still not fully understood.
Some studies have suggested that there may be a higher prevalence of autism or autistic traits among individuals in certain scientific fields, including mathematics and physics. However, these studies often have small sample sizes and rely on self-reporting or anecdotal evidence, which makes it difficult to draw definitive conclusions.
It is worth noting that the relationship between autism and mathematical ability is complex and not all individuals with autism exhibit exceptional mathematical skills. Additionally, the field of mathematics and theoretical physics attracts individuals with diverse backgrounds and interests, and it is not solely limited to individuals with autism or any particular neurological condition.
Overall, while there may be some indications of a higher prevalence of autism among professional mathematicians and theoretical physicists, further research is needed to better understand this relationship and its underlying factors.