I was wondering why this is, and had an interesting chat with ChatGPT about it, and I'd like to share it with you guys and see what you think. It's a lot to read through so I will just post a summerised version, and a link to the full version of the chat if you're interested in reading it:
Why society treats disablism and mentalism differently from racism and sexism
It’s frustrating how racism and sexism are seen as completely unacceptable, but disablism and mentalism often aren’t. There’s little public outrage when disabled or mentally ill people are talked about badly in politics or the media — even though the language and attitudes can be just as harmful.
This seems to happen because:
- Racism and sexism have long histories of activism and public awareness, so society has learned to condemn them.
- Disablism and mentalism haven’t had the same visibility. A lot of the harm happens out of sight — in benefits systems, institutions, or behind closed doors — so people don’t see it.
- There’s still stigma and blame. Many assume disability or mental illness means being “less capable” or “not trying hard enough,” which lets discrimination slide.
- Society still links human worth to productivity and independence, so people who can’t work or who need support are treated as “less deserving.”
Often, it takes major public suffering before an “-ism” becomes taboo. With racism, slavery and segregation forced the world to face the horror; with sexism, generations of activism made inequality impossible to ignore. Sadly, the same recognition for disabled and mentally ill people may only come if huge numbers are pushed into visible poverty, homelessness, or worse.
Ideally, we shouldn’t have to wait for that. We need awareness, solidarity, and activism before a crisis forces society to care.
Full version of the chat: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1VLruenhytfokoLboqpvQ74LUWYj_EfEAX_AGW2sMlLk/edit?usp=sharing
Thoughts?
