Critical Disability Studies (DIS) is an academic discipline that emerged in the early 1970s in response to the invisibility of people with disabilities in both the academic and public spheres. DIS scholars have critiqued mainstream social science and policy research to uncover how disability is constructed and naturalized and have developed critiques of mainstream models of disability. They also work to create inclusive and accessible learning environments for students with disabilities.
DIS is a growing field that considers disability a critical social justice aspect. It seeks to understand how disability shapes experience and creates systemic barriers for people with disabilities and to develop strategies for addressing these barriers. It is also an interdisciplinary field that draws on various theoretical tools and approaches. The field has a long history, dating back to the early days of the disability rights movement, where it has grown and evolved. Today, it is an important part of the global conversation about disability.
Key concepts include social justice, intersectionality, power, privilege, and oppression. These key goals aim to create a more inclusive society for people with disabilities by understanding how disability shapes experience and creates systemic barriers. It also aims to develop strategies for addressing these barriers. To sum it up, DIS is growing rapidly, and much work must be done. The field is still in its infancy but is already making a significant impact.
