...that manic depression, far from being a liability was an advantage. It was a selected trait. If it wasn't selected for, then the "disorder" would have disappeared long ago, bred out of the population like anything else that didn't increase the odds of survival. The advantage was obvious. The advantage was the energy, the creativity, the feeling of genius, almost, that Leonard felt right now. There was no telling how many great historical figures had been manic-depressives, how many scientific and artistic breakthroughs had occurred to people during manic episodes.
The passage suggests that manic depression should not be seen merely as a disorder, but rather as a beneficial trait that has persisted in human evolution. The author proposes that if this condition were truly a disadvantage, it would have naturally declined over time, much like traits that do not contribute to survival are eliminated. Instead, manic depression might confer advantages that enhance creativity and energy, characteristics that have likely contributed to significant historical achievements.
By highlighting the potential for genius and productivity during manic episodes, the text posits that many influential figures throughout history may have experienced manic depression. This perspective reshapes the understanding of the condition, portraying it as a source of inspiration and intellectual vigor that could lead to remarkable advancements across various fields, including science and the arts.
