In his book "The Biopolitics of Disability," David T. Mitchell discusses how neoliberal biopolitics complicates the politics surrounding atypical bodies. He argues that the social oppression of individuals with disabilities is often rooted in medical classifications that overly categorize people based on their physical or mental conditions. This over-categorization can lead to a reductionist view that strips individuals of their unique identities, labeling them merely as representatives of their medical conditions.
Mitchell emphasizes that such medical frameworks not only misrepresent the complexity of disabilities but also reinforce societal norms that value typicality. By focusing on pathology, these systems foster a form of oppression that marginalizes those who do not conform to dominant health ideals. This dynamic illustrates the need for a more inclusive understanding of disability that acknowledges the diverse and individualized experiences of those affected, challenging the prevailing narratives within neoliberal contexts.