Receiving the Gift of Friendship

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Does our capability define our humanity? If so, what does that mean for those with intellectual disabilities who may not meet conventional benchmarks of achievement? Hans Reinders asserts that profoundly disabled individuals are just as human as anyone else. While the recent push for disability rights aligns them more closely with mainstream society, Reinders emphasizes that their humanity precedes their status as citizens. He argues that to truly live a human life, individuals with disabilities must be included not only in institutions and public spaces but also in the lives of others, chosen rather than merely necessitated. The work is structured around three key themes: Profound Disability, Theology, and Ethics. Reinders challenges the prevailing notions of humanity, advocating for a paradigm shift in how we relate to those with disabilities through a philosophical-theological lens. His exploration is enriched by personal stories and insights from the experiences of profoundly disabled individuals, as well as the teachings of Jean Vanier and Henri Nouwen within L'Arche communities, bringing warmth and vividness to his argument.