Sociology and Criminology-Open Access
Open Access

Abstract

Solidarity with Disabled People in Times of Crisis

Nicole M*

Against the background of crisis and cuts, citizens can express solidarity with groups in various ways. Using novel survey data this text explores the attitudes and behaviours of citizens in their expressions of solidarity with disabled people and in doing so illuminates the differences and similarities across two European contexts: Italy and therefore the UK. The findings reveal pools of solidarity with disabled people across both countries that wear the one hand similar foundations like the social embeddedness and social trust of citizens, while on the opposite hand contain some differences, like the more direct and active nature of solidarity in Italy compared to the united kingdom and the role of religiosity as a crucial determinant, particularly in Italy. Across both countries the role of ‘deservingness’ was key to understanding solidarity, and the study’s conclusions raise questions on a solidarity embedded by a degree of paternalism and even religious piety.

Published Date: 2021-06-30; Received Date: 2021-06-08