Disability and Society

Combines policy, practice and theory in its presentation of recent developments in disability studies. This unique book brings together key figures in the field, synthesising the work of both able-bodied and disabled contributors to assess the recent history, current practice and key issues in a rapidly growing and controversial new area.

The study of disability has traditionally been influenced mainly by medical and psychological models. The aim of this new text, Disability and Society, is to open up the debate by introducing alternative perspectives reflecting the increasing sociological interest in this important topic.

Disability and Society brings together for the first time some of the most recent original research in this rapidly expanding area. The contributors, both disabled and non-disabled, are all leading thinkers in their field and suggest new ways of understanding disability, developing policy and challenging current practice.

Autorentext

Len Barton

Klappentext

Policy and practice in relation to disability have been strongly influenced by medical and psychological ideas and interests. Disability and Society is unique in that it brings a sociological perspective to disability, drawing contributions from the key figures in the field. The contributors, both non-disabled and disabled, share a commitment to the development of a social theory of disability, one which places significance on viewing the material, social conditions and relations of society as disabling. This book is an important contribution to the current and often controversial debate, presenting the reader with a wealth of ideas and insights into the many issues involved, assessing the growth and achievements of sociology in relation to disability and suggesting areas for future development. Disability and Society is essential reading for undergraduate students of disability studies, as well as students taking more traditional courses in social policy, education, health studies and social work. It will also serve as an invaluable reference for activists and campaigners for disabled people and professionals in related fields.

Inhalt

Introduction.
Part 1: Theoretical Developments:

1. Sociology and Disability. Setting the context( Len Barton)
2. A Sociology of disability or disabled sociology? ( Mike Oliver).
3. Theories of disability and the origins of the oppression of disabled people in western society. (Colin Barnes).
4. Work, Utopia and impairement (Paul Abberley).
   Part 2: Disability and Education.
5. Theorising special educational needs in a changing political climate (Sheila Riddell).
6. Clauses of conditionality: 'The Reasonable' accommodation of language (Roger Slee)
7. Reflecting on researching disability and higher education (Alan Hurst).
   Part 3: Disability, Charities, Normalisation and Representation.
8. A critique of the role of the traditional charities (Robert Drake).
9. Beyond normalisation but not Utopia(Gillian Fulcher).
10. Power and prejudice: issues of gender, sexuality and disability (Tom Shakespeare).
11. The Politics of disability identity (Susan Peters).
    Part 4: Disability: A Particular Research Method.
12. Sounds of still voices: issues of use of narrative methods with people who have learning difficulties (Tim Booth) Index