Einstein and Newton showed signs
of High Functioning Aspergers Syndrome

Both Newton and Einstein exhibited three key symptoms of  High functioning Aspergers (HFA) syndrome: obsessive interests, difficulty in social relationships, and problems communicating.

Newton seems like a classic case. He hardly spoke, was so engrossed in his work that he often forgot to eat, and was lukewarm or bad-tempered with the few friends he had. If no one turned up to his lectures, he gave them anyway, talking to an empty room. He had a nervous breakdown at 50, brought on by depression and paranoia.

Repeated sentences

As a child, Einstein was also a loner, and repeated sentences obsessively until he was seven years old. He became a notoriously confusing lecturer. And in spite of this, he made intimate friends, had numerous affairs and was outspoken on political issues.

Passion, falling in love and standing up for justice are all perfectly compatible with Aspergers syndrome.. What people with  HFA difficult is casual chatting - they can't do small-talk.

Einstein had a good sense of humor, a trait that is virtually unknown in people with severe AS, but common with HFA.

There may be certain niches in society where people with HFA can flourish for their strengths rather than their social skills. This condition can make people depressed or suicidal, so if we can find out how to make things easier for them, that's worthwhile.

Remember, in this high tech era, many nerds cry all the way to the bank.