re: Spain elects first member of Parliment with Downs Syndrome

Ok, so this is what I was wondering, I just couldn't find a place to hop in yet.

I admit my ignorance on the subject, but am also wondering about the direct applicability of the terms retarded and such.

I'm not put off by the term bc I know what is meant, but what is the story here, are Down's folks inherently mentally disabled, or are there some that bear the obvious physical characteristics of Down's but are not mentally disabled?

Someone put me some knowledge if you're so inclined and know what you're talking about, thanks.