THE PAIN OF BELONGING OF THE PERSON WITH DISABILITIES

THE CONTRIBUTION OF A HEALTH PHILOSOPHY TO ATTENTION, CARE AND ASSISTANCE IN AUTISM

Abstract

This article proposes a reflection on disability, particularly autism, analyzing how these topics have been historically perceived and judged. The aim is to seek a new understanding necessary for the care, attention, and health assistance of people with disabilities, especially in light of the possibilities brought by biotechnological advances. The text contextualizes disability, offering a critique of the concepts of normal, abnormal, and pathological in dialogue with the literature. From a philosophy of health perspective, the article reflects on genetics, biotechnologies, and health concepts. It concludes that the philosophy of health, in interaction with other fields of knowledge, can enrich the reflection on disability and autism by questioning what defines us as human beings and by underpinning inclusive health actions for people with disabilities, thus enabling their sense of belonging.