Non-complicit: Revisiting Hans Asperger's Career in Nazi-era Vienna

Area of Science:

• Medical History
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Nazi Era Studies

Background:

• Recent allegations suggest pediatrician Hans Asperger supported Nazi policies, including child euthanasia.
• This study re-examines historical records, including newly translated documents, to assess Asperger's involvement with Nazi programs.
• The analysis considers the timeline of Hitler's T4 euthanasia program halt in 1941.

Discussion:

• Evidence suggests Asperger was likely unaware of the T4 program when referring patients to Am Spiegelgrund.
• Asperger actively promoted Curative Education for disabled children, prioritizing their well-being over Nazi racial hygiene policies.
• His interactions and professional conduct do not indicate disparagement of patients or sexism.

Key Insights:

• Asperger identified core characteristics of Asperger syndrome by 1938, describing patients who later formed the basis of his 1944 profile.
• His research was prescient, laying groundwork for understanding developmental conditions.
• Certain actions align with definitions of individual resistance against prevailing ideologies.

Outlook:

• Further research into historical medical practices during the Nazi era is warranted.
• Re-evaluation of historical figures requires careful consideration of context and newly available evidence.
• Understanding Asperger's contributions necessitates distinguishing his scientific work from the political climate of his time.