Year
2016
Season
Summer
Paper Type
Master's Thesis
College
College of Arts and Sciences
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Philosophy and Religious Studies
NACO controlled Corporate Body
University of North Florida. Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies
First Advisor
Dr Erinn Gilson
Second Advisor
Dr Alyssa Swota
Third Advisor
Dr Andrew Buchwalter
Department Chair
Dr Mitchell Haney
College Dean
Dr Barbara A. Hetrick
Abstract
This thesis addresses questions relating to perceptions of abilities and abnormalities found in everyday life. Abilities in this paper range from a total lack of ability to function in extreme disability to a level of ability expected by society to enhanced and radically enhanced abilities and their place in the realm of abnormality. We begin by establishing the differences between abilities and enhancements. Following this is a discussion regarding the ethical concerns of human enhancement. After this we turn to a discussion of abnormality and the social experience of abnormality. These discussions lead into establishing a basis for how many abilities are considered abnormal. This is then followed by a discussion that specifically addresses whether or not individuals who voluntarily undergo non-therapeutic enhancement may be subject to oppressive measures.
Suggested Citation
West, Jessica, "Ability and Abnormality" (2016). UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 638.
https://digitalcommons.unf.edu/etd/638
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