Introduction
The clip from the film Examined Life features disability rights activist Sunaura Taylor and philosopher Judith Butler. Taylor and Butler take a walk around San Francisco and discuss issues pertaining to disability, notably the societal perception of people with disabilities. Over the course of the walk, Taylor and Butler visit a clothes store to purchase an item for the former. Taylor shares her experiences as a person with a disability, while Butler comments on how they can be described from a sociological point of view. Their discussion sheds light on the differences between the medical and sociological models of disability, as well as the minority status of people with disabilities.
Overall, it can be said that the clip is illuminating due to the information it provides and the way it is framed. The main reason why it can be considered insightful lies in the way that the experiences and expertise of Taylor and Butler combine and add to each other. The viewer is able to see different sides of the issue and receives a comprehensive overview. Therefore, one can say that the clip provides a valuable perspective on disability.
Differences between Medical and Sociological Models of Disability
According to the medical model of disability, a physical or mental impairment results in a medical condition called disability. This model views disability as a personal issue that may be resolved by medical treatment or intervention. The sociological model of disability, in contrast, views impairment as a social construction influenced by societal attitudes and beliefs. This model contends that disability is a result of how society is structured rather than a personal issue (Niraula 57). This model highlights the importance of accessibility and social inclusion while also highlighting the prejudices and obstacles that people with disabilities must overcome in society.
Taylor and Butler’s discussions aid in distinguishing between medical and sociological models of disability. Taylor explains that her disability can be viewed from a medical point of view as the fact that she has arthrogryposis and needs to use a wheelchair in order to function (Examined Life 4:36). At the same time, this can be discussed from a sociological point of view, as she recalls her negative experiences with society, such as being called a monkey when attempting to walk on her own (Examined Life 11:06). This explanation provides insight into the differences between the two models of disability.
People with Disabilities as a Minority
Examining how society views those with disabilities can be used to support the claim that they are a minority group. Negative attitudes and prejudices are frequently held against people with disabilities, which can result in discrimination and exclusion. In fact, Butler specifically links the experiences of people with disabilities to the struggles of those who do not conform to their assigned or perceived gender (Examined Life 9:39). Another argument in favor of classifying people with disabilities as a minority is the fact that they may face physical barriers that prevent them from fully participating in society. Lack of accessible transportation or buildings can be considered one such barrier. Taylor indicates that her decision to move to San Francisco was in fact, fueled by the lack of such infrastructure in Brooklyn, where she comes from (Examined Life 1:32). In conclusion, it is clear from seeing the film that people with disabilities might be regarded as a minority population.
Conclusion
Overall, Butler and Taylor provide an insightful overview of issues related to disability and society. The discussion is complete with Taylor’s personal experiences and understanding of what it is like to have disabilities, while Butler has a deep understanding of societal prejudices surrounding minorities. The two thinkers provide a compelling argument regarding the disparities between the social and medical theories of disability, as well as the minority position of people with disabilities.
Works Cited
“Examined Life – Judith Butler & Sunaura Taylor.” YouTube, uploaded by NominalistWay, Web.
Niraula, Rupashree. “Disability and Gender: A Study of Lived Experiences of Economic Hardships Faced by Women with Disabilities from Sudurpaschim Province, Nepal.” International Journal of Social Sciences and Management, vol. 9, no. 2, 2022, pp. 55-62. Web.