A DIVERSIDADE DA CONDIÇÃO HUMANA - Faders - Governo do ...

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ABSTRACT
The great paradox in social relations is established by the need of standardization of the
human behaviour, since differences are a typical characteristic of human beings. People
live in their social environment under the shield of ‘normality’ developed from a binary
logic which divides people into categories such as: ‘normal / abnormal’, ‘similar /
different’, ‘perfect / disabled’. The immediate consequence that comes from this
fragmented interpretation of individuals happens to be segregation and exclusion of the
ones who don’t fit the established standards of normality. Disabled people or the ones who
have highly sophisticated abilities due to their peculiarities have been submitted to this
overwhelming process of social exclusion throughout the development of society. The
present thesis recognizes diversity as a component of human nature; it considers that social
relations prevent individuals from having access to certain instances. Considering the topic
disabilities/differences it is intended that the concept which regards differences as
abnormality must be dismissed. Differences are the power that moves a dynamic society
forward. This research is a qualitative approach, that includes the study of a case from
FADERS (Foundation for development of public policies to people who suffer from any
disabilities or have highly sophisticated abilities in Rio Grande do Sul). Interviews and
seminars were carried out with several units of this foundation, its personnel, users and
disabled people as well. Besides the interviews, a diary and lectures about the organization
of society and the aspects related to disabilities and special abilities were used to make up
this thesis.