The Disabled in China

This week on Sinica, Kaiser and Jeremy are joined by James Palmer and John Giszczack for a discussion of the disabled in China. Join us as we discuss how the Chinese language defines the concept of disability, what public attitudes are prevalent about the disabled, and what resources the Chinese government makes—and doesn't make—available to help those with disabilities to integrate themselves into society.

Frederic J. Brown/AFP/Getty Images
Street artist Xi Fu lights a candle with his toes, delicately holding a matchstick during a performance-art rehearsal with friends in Beijing. Disabled shortly after birth, Xi had since childhood grown used to using his toes and feet as others use their fingers and hands. He makes a living painting with his feet at various locations around the city.

As a quick introduction to our guests, James Palmer is making his second appearance here on Sinica today, and is well-known for his excellent pieces on China, including this favorite of ours in Aeon Magazine on the 1980s generation. John Giszczack is the co-founder of Abled Lives, a med-tech company focused on improving the quality of life for disabled people in China.

Topics: 
Health, Society