Book Review of Disability Research Today: International Perspectives

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Disability studies are inclusive enough to accommodate diversity but some activists and scholars in critical disability studies or using a social model approach might be reading this book wondering if Tom Shakespeare is still relevant? Many sociologists might not be aware of these debates and framing them is important. I wanted readers to gain some insights into not only the standing of Tom Shakespeare, the theoretical and empirical calibre of the authors included but also of the sociological depth and breadth of disability studies and where some of the new challenges, interesting developments and critical work is located. Ultimately, the negative impact of austerity and neoliberalism means that crucial work in disability studies and activism, especially from organisations run by disabled people, is found outside of international research as Tom Shakespeare defines it. More than ever, I think for disability studies, it is important to understand this and why, politically, that has happened.

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