Rethinking Dependency: A Radical Approach to the Care of People with Disabilities

In her groundbreaking book, "Rethinking Dependency: A Radical Approach to the Care of People with Disabilities," Lidia Goldenstein challenges conventional wisdom about disability and dependency. She argues that the current system of care is based on a medical model that sees disability as a problem to be fixed, rather than a natural part of human diversity. This model leads to a focus on individual deficits and limitations, rather than on the strengths and abilities of people with disabilities.

Goldenstein proposes a new approach to disability care that is based on the social model of disability. This model sees disability as a social construct that is created by barriers in society, such as inaccessible buildings, discriminatory attitudes, and lack of support services. By focusing on removing these barriers, we can create a more inclusive society that values and respects people with disabilities.

A New Vision for Disability Care

Goldenstein's vision for disability care is based on the following principles:

• People with disabilities are not objects of pity or charity. They are full and equal members of society who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.
• Disability is not a tragedy. It is simply a natural part of human diversity.
• People with disabilities are capable of living full and meaningful lives. They can work, go to school, have relationships, and participate in all aspects of society.
• The current system of disability care is broken. It is based on a medical model that sees disability as a problem to be fixed, rather than a natural part of human diversity.
• We need a new approach to disability care that is based on the social model of disability. This model sees disability as a social construct that is created by barriers in society, such as inaccessible buildings, discriminatory attitudes, and lack of support services.

The Benefits of a Social Model of Disability Care

A social model of disability care has many benefits, including:

• It is more respectful of people with disabilities. It sees them as full and equal members of society, rather than as objects of pity or charity.
• It is more effective in promoting independence and self-determination. It focuses on removing barriers that prevent people with disabilities from participating fully in society, rather than on trying to fix their individual deficits.
• It is more cost-effective. It is less expensive to provide support services that enable people with disabilities to live independently than it is to provide institutional care.
• It is more sustainable. It creates a more inclusive society that values and respects people with disabilities, rather than a society that segregates them and treats them as second-class citizens.

How to Create a More Inclusive Society

There are many things that we can do to create a more inclusive society for people with disabilities, including:

• Educate ourselves about disability. Learn about the different types of disabilities and how they affect people's lives.
• Challenge stereotypes and prejudices about disability. Speak out against discrimination and ableism.
• Support organizations that work for disability rights. Donate money, volunteer your time, or simply spread the word about their work.
• Be an ally to people with disabilities. Offer your support and assistance, and let them know that you value and respect them.

By working together, we can create a more inclusive society that values and respects people with disabilities.

Conclusion

"Rethinking Dependency" is a must-read for anyone who is interested in disability rights and social justice. Goldenstein's radical approach to disability care is a powerful challenge to the status quo, and it offers a new vision for a more inclusive society.