If 15–20% of the population are neurodivergent, we’re not talking about exceptions; we’re talking about a substantial part of the human norm. Yet our systems still treat this fifth of humanity as “defective” or “atypical.”
This article explores the paradox: rising recognition of ADHD, autism, dyslexia, Tourette’s, and other forms of cognitive variation, alongside persistent skepticism and stereotypes. It argues that prevalence hasn’t changed, only our ability to see what was always there.
From packed lecture halls in Eindhoven to workplace reports across Europe, the evidence points to a systemic gap: we lack the infrastructure to support and leverage cognitive diversity at scale.
The piece calls for a Cognitive Diversity Enablement Hub — a practical, evidence‑based resource that moves beyond fragmented initiatives and begins designing systems for the 20%, not against them.