The significance of recognition

This chapter presents and discusses the main theoretical perspective underpinning this book, namely recognition theory as developed by the German philosopher Axel Honneth. This theoretical perspective aligns well with the macro–meso–micro stratified approach to the implementation of the CRPD in diverse contexts. The chapter explores disability as a universal human condition and examines the role of CRPD in the struggle for recognition seen in a disability perspective. Thereafter, some challenges in recognition theory are discussed. By including perspectives from Martha Nussbaum’s theory of justice, capabilities approach, the democratic importance of equal access to higher education is addressed. In this chapter, I propose to interpret the CRPD as providing a common language, as well as grammar and structure for recognising the rights of persons with disabilities.