The Medical vs. Social Model of Disability: What It Means for Neurodivergence

Whose Responsibility Is It? The Individual or Society?

One of the key debates surrounding neurodivergence and disability is whether it should be the individual's responsibility to adapt to the world as it is, or whether society has an obligation to become more inclusive and accommodating for those with different styles of interaction. The Medical Model of Disability argues that the individual must adapt, while the Social Model of Disability advocates for systemic change to remove barriers that make life unnecessarily difficult for neurodivergent individuals.

The Historical Influence of Pastoral Societies

Western society has deep historical roots in pastoralism, where survival depended on owning and defending land and resources. This mindset created a culture where individual responsibility was paramount, and those who lacked land or power were subjected to harsh control by those who did. Although this perspective is outdated in a modern, interconnected world, it remains deeply ingrained in our social, political, and religious structures. This historical precedent continues to shape how society views disability—placing the burden of adaptation solely on the individual rather than acknowledging the need for collective support.

The Stigma of Moral Failure and Economic Competition

Neurodivergent and disabled individuals are often unfairly blamed for their struggles, with society viewing them as weak-minded or physically incapable rather than recognizing systemic barriers. Many disabled people experience the paradox of being expected to "make it on their own" in a world already dominated by neurotypical competition. Even when neurodivergent individuals develop valuable skills or businesses, many neurotypicals hesitate to support them, assuming—consciously or subconsciously—that a disabled person must be incapable of producing high-quality work. This form of economic exclusion further reinforces the barriers that neurodivergent people face in achieving independence.

The Desire for a Monocultural Society

A significant portion of neurotypical society wishes for a world where everyone conforms to the same behaviors and expectations. This longing for monoculturalism is not based on logic but rather serves as an excuse to dismiss the need for inclusivity. The idea that neurodivergent and disabled people should "find their own way" ignores the reality that a robust society thrives when it creates opportunities for all individuals—whether through support systems or pathways to self-sufficiency.

The Medical Model's Limitations and the Path to Change

To shift toward a social model of disability, we must first dismantle the myth that disabilities can always be "cured" by a doctor. The Medical Model of Disability assumes that impairments are medical conditions that should be treated, rather than recognizing that many disabilities are lifelong and require systemic accommodations rather than personal "fixes." Additionally, access to medical care is often cost-prohibitive and tied to employment, leaving many disabled individuals in limbo without long-term support or advocacy.

Moving Beyond a Brutal Past to a Civilized Future

For the Social Model of Disability to be effective, we must acknowledge that the outdated, survival-of-the-fittest mentality from pastoral societies no longer serves us. A modern, ethical society should not be built on the idea that only those who can "pull themselves up by their bootstraps" deserve success. Instead, we need to commit to supporting those who require assistance, even if they do not fit neatly into our personal ideals. Embracing systemic change does not mean the downfall of civilization—it signals the beginning of a more compassionate and just world, one that actively reduces crime and social instability by ensuring that all individuals have the support they need to thrive.