Social Perceptions of People with Disabilities in History : Book Review

"Social Perceptions of People with Disabilities in History" by Herbert C. Covey delves into the treatment and societal views of disabled individuals throughout history. Covey examines different time periods and cultures to provide a comprehensive understanding of how people with disabilities have been perceived and treated over time.

The book begins by exploring ancient civilizations, such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome. In these societies, individuals with disabilities were often seen as symbols of misfortune or divine punishment. The lack of awareness and inclusivity resulted in the marginalization and exclusion of disabled individuals.

Covey then moves on to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, where religious beliefs and superstitions played a significant role in shaping perceptions of disability. Disabled individuals were often associated with evil or witchcraft, leading to their further isolation from society.

The Industrial Revolution brought about significant changes in how disability was viewed. As society became more industrialized, disabled individuals were considered burdens and deemed unfit for work. This period also saw the rise of eugenics, which perpetuated negative attitudes towards disability and resulted in forced sterilizations and institutionalization.

However, the book also highlights important moments of progress and changing perceptions. Covey discusses the disability rights movements of the 20th century, which fought for equal rights and improved treatment for disabled individuals. He explores the evolution of disability rights legislation and the efforts made to create a more inclusive society.

What are readers saying?

The book titled "Social Perceptions of People with Disabilities in History" written by Herbert C. Covey has received a range of reviews from readers. Some readers commended Covey for his extensive research and the historical perspective he brings to the topic. They appreciated how he delved into the evolving perceptions of individuals with disabilities throughout different time periods, shining a light on a often overlooked aspect of society. Many found the book to be informative and enlightening.

On the other hand, some reviewers found the book to be overly academic and dense. They struggled to follow the text at times due to the excessive use of jargon and the absence of accessible language. Additionally, a number of readers expressed disappointment in the book's limited scope, wishing for a more comprehensive examination of various disabilities and historical periods.

While some reviewers applauded the objective and scholarly approach taken by Covey, others criticized the lack of personal anecdotes and subjective analysis. They yearned for a deeper emotional connection to truly comprehend the experiences of people with disabilities throughout history. Some readers also felt that the book's writing style could be improved, finding it to be repetitive and excessively verbose. They believed that a more concise and engaging presentation of information would have made the book more accessible to a wider audience.

In conclusion, "Social Perceptions of People with Disabilities in History" by Herbert C. Covey is a well-researched book that provides valuable insights into how individuals with disabilities have been perceived throughout history. However, it may not be suitable for all readers due to its academic tone and limited coverage. There is room for improvement in terms of the writing style and the book's scope, but overall, it offers a unique and informative perspective on a significant social issue.