An analysis of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990

This paper presents the basic philosophies that have influenced the development of social policy affecting the disabled. These philosophies include utilitarianism, humanitarianism, and human rights. It is suggested that the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 is grounded in the human rights philosophy. Under the Act, disabled individuals are treated as an oppressed group who have been denied basic constitutional rights. The Americans With Disabilities Act is considered to be the "emancipation proclamation for the disabled."