The article is extraordinarily convincing in its argument. The author first and foremost before going into the main argument gives the reader some back ground information. This is then followed by a deeper definition and explanation of the different social models and historical of disability. She then uses examples that bring the point home. This clarifies her points explaining the problem of defining disability. The article is credible because the author Deborah Kaplan is the director of the World Institute on Disability. This is not the main reason. The author has also uses sources that are not only credible but agree with her views in the article. She uses government documents as well as documents published by the United Nations. (Kaplan, 2012 )
The author asserts that there is a social construction surrounding disability. This position is given weight by the fact that there are disabilities that are viewed as such by society yet are not a hindrance to the proper functioning of an individual in society. There are also the different models of disability. The moral model views disability as a sin, while the medical model sees it as a disease that should be cured. These models are social constructions that are not helpful and in fact add to the stigma of being disabled.
Questions for the class
1. How is disability a social construction?
2. How has society ignored the disabled when It comes to its structure?
3. What can be done by the government to improve the lives of the disabled?
Impairment: Any loss of idiosyncrasy of psychosomatic, or body structure or purpose.
Disability: Any constraint of capability to accomplish an activity within the range measured as being normal for the average human being.
Handicap: A disadvantage resulting from an deficiency that restricts or inhibits the success of a role that is normal.
References
Deborah Kaplan, “The Definition of Disability,” Unpublished. USA.print
"UN Enable - World Programme of Action Concerning Disabled Persons." United Nations. Web. 19 Apr. 2012 <http://www.un.org/disabilities/default.asp?id=23>.
