Why the Pursuit of Inclusive Education Cannot be Left to Science: Lessons from the Work of Burton Blatt

Abstract

The focus of this chapter is primarily on Burton Blatt’s investigations and exposés of closed institutions. These are the catalysts that served to set the stage for subsequent campaigns for inclusive schooling. The chapter also discusses issues of educability, the meaning of the concept of intellectual disability, the role of science in inclusion and treatment, and frameworks for pursuing, performing, and maintaining inclusive education and living. And in the interests of full disclosure, readers will note the personal connection between Biklen and Blatt, a result of sustained collaboration over many years.

Citation

Biklen, D. (2015), "Why the Pursuit of Inclusive Education Cannot be Left to Science: Lessons from the Work of Burton Blatt", Foundations of Inclusive Education Research (International Perspectives on Inclusive Education, Vol. 6), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 187-204. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1479-363620150000006007