The dark side of viewing disability as inability : a case study of the euthanasia program during the Nazi regime

Abstract

It is estimated that 15% of individuals live with a disability around the world. Throughout history, as well as during contemporary times, people living with a disability have been disproportionately marginalized in society. Misconceptions associated with disability remain a major root factor and driving force in the continuous stigmatisation and discrimination against persons with disabilities. The ongoing sidelining of an already marginalized group has very real and adverse consequences on the human rights and fundamental freedoms of individuals living with a disability, as well as on society at large. As such, this thesis seeks to address a number of issues, including those barriers to social inclusion of persons with disabilities and the ways in which their social exclusion, which is perpetuated by prejudices, may result in injustices committed towards them. In order to overcome the oppression of persons with disabilities and to prevent the violations of their human rights, this thesis argues that it is vital to expose the societal neglect of this group, as well as the systematic and omnipresent issue of ableism which still endures in modern society. Additionally, the issue of language is explored in terms of the impact it has on the stereotypes of disability it propagates, but also in regards to the transformation that it can help usher in. Lastly, this thesis furthers the argument that in order to holistically address issues relating to persons with disability, the human rights framework must be complemented by the trauma-informed framework, which takes into consideration the consequences of the maltreatment of persons with disabilities. Keywords: disability, persons with disabilities, stigmatisation, discrimination, eugenics, language, trauma, social exclusion and inclusion, human rights, empowerment