J. Except. People 2012, 1(2):107-122

A classical philosophical/theoretical basis for reversing negative or maladaptive trends in disabled humor and for fostering person-accepting reactions towards individuals with disabilities

Alicja Rieger1, Daniel Rieger2
1 Associate Professor, Valdosta State University, GA, Department of Early Childhood and Special Education, 1500 N. Patterson St., Valdosta, GA 31698-0092, USA
2 Associate Professor, Broward College, Philosophy and Religion Department, 1000 Coconut Creek Blvd., Coconut Creek, Florida, 33066, USA

This essay is orientated towards educators. It addresses the need to respond more with person-accepting reactions rather than with humor-disguised, disability-focused reactions to persons with disabilities. This essay draws attention to the use of disability humor, especially by persons with disabilities, to promote inclusiveness and person-accepting reactions toward persons with disabilities.
This essay puts forward the philosophical perspectives of Plato and Descartes concerning the nature of the human person to provide a viable theoretical basis for person-accepting reactions to persons with disabilities. Plato and Descartes are selected because they not only provide us with their theories of human nature, but they also specifically, though briefly, address laughter and humor in the context of misfortune, including disabilities.
The final part of the essay addresses some suggestions for classroom applications as to how educators might try to shape the use of humor to promote inclusiveness and person-accepting reactions toward persons with disabilities in the classroom.

Keywords: disability, humor, philosophical perspectives, inclusion, classroom implications

Published: December 11, 2012  Show citation

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Rieger, A., & Rieger, D. (2012). A classical philosophical/theoretical basis for reversing negative or maladaptive trends in disabled humor and for fostering person-accepting reactions towards individuals with disabilities. Journal of Exceptional People, 1(2), 107-122
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