The authors examine, amongst other issues,the changing nature of the concept of disability, key debates in the sociology of health and illness, the politicisation of disability, social policy, and the cultural and media representation of disability. As well as providing an excellent overview of the literature in the area, the book develops an understanding of disability that has implications for both sociology and society. The second edition of will be indispensable for students across the social sciences, and in health and social care, who really want to understand the issues facing disabled people and disabling societies.