Introduction
Disability has been perceived and treated differently throughout history, influenced by cultural, social, and economic factors. Understanding the historical perspectives of disability at national and international levels helps in recognizing the progress made and the challenges that remain in ensuring the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
Disability perspectives have evolved over time. Ancient civilizations had varied views, often seeing disability as a curse or divine punishment. Over time, society’s understanding shifted from religious and charity-based approaches to medical and rights-based models. The following sections explore the historical developments both internationally and in India.
International Perspectives on Disability
In ancient civilizations, disability was often misunderstood. Ancient Greece viewed disability through a eugenic lens. Spartans practiced infanticide, abandoning infants with visible disabilities. Plato and Aristotle advocated for the elimination of those considered "weak" to maintain a strong society. In Rome, persons with disabilities were treated differently; while gladiators and slaves with disabilities were used for entertainment, some wealthy Romans cared for disabled family members.
During the medieval period in Europe, religious perspectives dominated. Disability was often seen as divine punishment or a test of faith. The Catholic Church played a major role in providing charity and care, leading to the establishment of asylums and monasteries for disabled individuals.
The Renaissance and Enlightenment periods saw a shift toward medical interpretations of disability. The Age of Enlightenment emphasized reason and scientific inquiry, leading to the early development of special education and institutionalization of persons with disabilities.
The Industrial Revolution created economic pressures where persons with disabilities were often seen as burdens. The rise of asylums and specialized institutions marked this period. Disability studies started gaining prominence with figures like Jean-Marc Gaspard Itard and Édouard Séguin pioneering education for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
In the 20th century, the two World Wars led to a significant number of disabled war veterans, influencing the creation of rehabilitation programs. The post-war period saw disability rights movements, especially in the USA and Europe. The United Nations Declaration of Human Rights (1948) laid the foundation for recognizing disability rights. The 1970s and 1980s witnessed global disability rights activism, leading to the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990) and later, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2006).
International Perspectives on Disability
Ancient Civilizations:
- Greece: Spartans practiced infanticide; Plato & Aristotle favored eliminating the "weak."
- Rome: Mixed treatment—disabled individuals used for entertainment or cared for by wealthy families.
Medieval Europe:
- Disability seen as divine punishment or a test of faith.
- Catholic Church provided charity and asylums for the disabled.
Renaissance & Enlightenment:
- Shift towards medical perspectives.
- Special education and institutions for disabled individuals developed.
Industrial Revolution:
- Economic pressures led to exclusion; disabled individuals were often institutionalized.
- Education pioneers like Jean-Marc Gaspard Itard & Édouard Séguin emerged.
20th Century & Beyond:
- World Wars led to rehabilitation programs for disabled veterans.
- 1948: UN Declaration of Human Rights recognized disability rights.
- 1990: Americans with Disabilities Act (USA) passed.
- 2006: UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities adopted.
National Perspectives on Disability (India)
In ancient and medieval India, disability was often viewed through religious and social lenses. Ancient Hindu scriptures, such as the Vedas and Manusmriti, mention disabilities but often associate them with past karma. Ayurveda provided medical treatments for certain disabilities. In medieval India, persons with disabilities were often marginalized, though some enjoyed patronage in royal courts as musicians, jesters, or poets.
During the colonial era, the British introduced some forms of institutionalized care for disabled individuals, particularly for blind and deaf individuals. Missionary organizations played a major role in establishing special schools and asylums.
After India’s independence, significant legal and policy changes were introduced. The Indian Constitution (1950) emphasized equality and provided the framework for disability rights. The Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act, 1995, marked a major step in legal recognition and support. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, expanded protections and recognized a wider range of disabilities.
National Perspectives on Disability (India)
Ancient & Medieval India:
- Disability associated with karma in Hindu scriptures.
- Ayurveda offered treatments; some disabled individuals found royal patronage.
Colonial Era:
- British rule introduced institutional care for blind and deaf individuals.
- Missionary organizations established special schools.
Post-Independence:
- 1950: Constitution ensured equality and fundamental rights.
- 1995: Persons with Disabilities Act provided legal recognition.
- 2016: Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act expanded legal protections.
Models of Disability
- Medical Model: Disability as a medical condition requiring treatment.
- Social Model: Disability caused by societal barriers, not impairments.
- Biopsychosocial Model: Integrates medical, psychological, and social factors.
- Charity Model: Views disabled individuals as dependent on charity.
- Human Rights Model: Focuses on equal opportunities, legal protection, and accessibility.
.png)
.png)
.png)
