Abstract
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The characteristics that provide a platform for a categorical distinction between
being 'disabled' and 'abled' is arguably dependent on the shared understanding
and socially agreed upon ideas of a group of individuals. Collectively, groups
derive meaning through communications and interactions with each other
and their environment using particular language and common assumptions
(Prawat & Floden, 1994; Rogoff, 1990). The intersubjectivity of the community
aids in shaping personal meaning of their position in relation to another
person's position. Some argue that the intersubjectivity, or shared understandIng,
creates social meaning and knowledge of ability and disability which are
socially constructed dichotomies, and that through the polarised construction
people are positioned on one side or another of an apparent factually based
line of difference (Kang, 2009; Scully, 2009; Titchkosky, 2003; Williams et al.,
Chapter 4, this volume). The construction and definition of disability arise
through a variety of mediums including social, cultural, historical, and political
discourses (Scully, 2009). As disability is constructed so to is the 'line of
difference' that distinguishes the abled from the disabled. This line of difference
is continuously constructed and reconstructed to coincide with changing
cultural, political, and personal landscapes. These landscapes are constantly
changing as a result of multiple influences including, although not limited to,
gaining new information or exposure about a topic.