Module description
This module introduces students to the history of disability. We will investigate how categories of ability/disability have been developed, applied, and challenged, by historical actors as well as by scholars and activists today. Focusing on the early modern and modern period we consider how disability was framed as a medical, legal, political and social issue, how it has been presented in public life and culture, and how it intersects with race and gender. Throughout the module we will ask how a focus on disability offers new analytical perspectives on key themes of modern history, from the development of concepts of citizenship and definitions of humanity to the emergence of the welfare state and the idea of human rights.
Assessment details
3,500 word essay
Educational aims & objectives
The module introduces students to key themes, approaches and methods in the history of disability. In particular, the module will offer students the opportunity to:
- identify and engage with key historiographical debates around concepts of disability such as the 'medical' and the 'social model' and their interpretative consequences;
- develop an advanced understanding of a range of approaches to disability, from medical history to legal, cultural and social history;
- develop a depper understanding of how disability history intersects with histories of gender and race, and with key elements of modern history such as state formation, industrialisation and professionalisation.
Students will also develop the following general historical skills:
- Analysis and critical assessment of historical debate and an appreciation of the complexity of the historical process;
- An ability to elaborate and present a coherent argument with appropriate use of evidence;
- Coherent and fluent critical writing and participation in oral discussion.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, the students will be able to demonstrate intellectual, transferable and practicable skills appropriate to a Level 7 module and in particular will be able to demonstrate:
- An advanced understanding of the development of analytical concepts and historiographical debates around the concept of disability;
- An advanced understanding of legal, institutional and medical frameworks of disability, with a main focus on the global North since the 17th century;
- A solid command and critical understanding of different approaches and source materials.
- The capacity to formulate their own arguments and questions about histories of disability.