Medical sociologists and sociologists of disability study similar topics but, because of competing or conflicting theoretical paradigms, tend to arrive at different conclusions, engage with different audiences, and pursue different directions for social change. Despite diverging trajectories over the past 20 years, however, there remains clear potential overlap between both subfields in the study of disability and untapped opportunities for cross-fertilization. Our purpose here is to place these literatures in conversation with each other. Toward this end, we identify major themes in the last 20 years of medical sociology scholarship, gaps with regard to disability in those themes, and possibilities (including methodologies) we see at the intersection of medical sociology and the sociology of disability that could address these gaps.
W e are extremely honored to present this special issue on "Gender, Disability, and Intersectionality." Working on this project has been a privilege as we have been able to see the theoretical sophistication, range of topics and methodological innovation evident in contemporary sociologists' contributions to research in feminist disability studies. As we embarked on this project, we recognized how important it is for Gender & society, as a leading gender studies journal, to feature the intersectional scholarship of feminist disability studies scholars. Informed by black feminist analysis of black women's lives, the conceptualization of intersectionality enables a complex understanding of the ways in which race, gender, class, sexuality, and ability among other dimensions of social, cultural, political, and economic processes intersect to shape everyday experiences and social institutions. AuThORS' NOTE: Our thanks to Jo reger and the editorial team at Oakland University for their guidance and support through the process of producing this special issue.
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