The purpose of this study is to examine the meaning and limitations of social model as a disability
theory by reviewing the dispute over the disability definition and the politics of identity. After the social
model was imported to our society, it has an irresistible force as a new paradigm which has to be pursued
by the policies and practices for the disabled. As we see, now the organized societies of the disabled are
developing rapidly, and the anti-discrimination law was enacted in Korea. The purposes that social model
have pursued over the 20 years become accomplished. Now is the time to review what are the meaning
and limitations of social model for new coordinates finding.
This article focuses on two topics. First, the disability definition of social model failed to explain the
personal experiences of the disabled. This limitation is caused by separating disability from impairments
conceptually. Second, the politics of identity as oppressed and excluded minority may provoke to expel
the approach of the non-disabled paradoxically. So ideal disability theory has to include multi factors of
disability issues, which is the reason why the multi-perspective approach to disability theory including
biological, psychological, social-structural and cultural factors is needed now.