Exploring Disability: A Sociological Introduction - Softcover

Barnes, Colin; Mercer, Geof; Shakespeare, Tom

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0745614787 ISBN 13: 9780745614786

Publisher: Polity Press, 1999

Synopsis

This is an exciting new introductory textbook for anyone studying disability. As well as providing an excellent overview of the existing literature in the area, the book also develops an understanding of disability that has implications for both sociology and society.

About this title

Review

"Disability studies have been ignored by mainstream sociology for far too long. This book will place them squarely on the academic agenda and is a must for all self–respecting sociologists." M. J. Oliver, University of Greenwich

"This book makes a significant contribution to the developing theory of disability, and does not shy away from exploring the theoretical fuzziness that is commonly found in the field. Comprehensive in scope, the work both examines the issues involved in a socio–political social justice and rights approach to disability, and surveys the ideas of most of the key thinkers in this developing area." Marcia H. Rioux, Ph D, President, Roeher Institute

"This is a very readable, scholarly, thoughtful and thought–provoking text, which should be a set book on disability studies courses, including those within sociology departments." Len Barton, Department of Educational Studies, University of Sheffield

′Exploring Disability provides a comprehensive introduction to the sociology of disability suggesting areas of enquiry that could be explored in greater depth ... This book provides a necessary foundation for developing a fuller understanding of ... areas within a sociological framework. In consequence it makes a significant contrbution to the discipline of sociology.′ Sociology

Over the last three decades our understanding of disability has changed dramatically. Once perceived as a largely medical problem affecting only a small number of people, it is now regarded as a major social and political issue. Exploring Disability charts both the traditional and contemporary approaches to the area before focusing on the social model of disability. In a series of chapters, the authors then go on to look at the relationship between disabled people and areas such as medical sociology, disability studies, social policy, politics and culture. The book ends with an exploration of the future of theory and research on disability.

Exploring Disability will be indispensable for students seeking to understand disability within sociology, disability studies, social policy, politics, cultural studies, and health–related disciplines including medicine.

Edition details

• Publisher: Polity Press
• Publication date: 1999
• ISBN 10: 0745614787
• ISBN 13: 9780745614786
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 288