The classical sociological theory and disability: some notes for a potential dialogue

Abstract

The following writing raises the possibilities of establishing an emergent and necessary dialogue between the subject of disability and the classical conceptual frameworks of sociological theory. We consider such possibilities under the suspicion that, in the works of theorists recognized as “classical”, we can find explanations/understandings that usefully contribute to the understanding of disability, its reconceptualization and redefinition. We assume that disability is a phenomenon that stands out as complex and multidimensional. We also assume that sociology allows us to see it, on one hand, as a sway between the structural constraints that restrict the possibilities of “social existence” in individuals with this condition, and on the other hand the intentionality, meaning and motivation from which these people signify their actions, their assigned status and their social position. In this sense, the following article sets out to develop the following question: How can classical sociological theories and its concepts contribute to the understanding of disability? By way of contextualization, some empirical data from various sources is offered