Cutting across a disciplinary divide, Sociologies of Disability critically reviews and compares the conflicting perspectives on disability and chronic illness found in disability studies and medical sociology. Thomas carefully outlines the historical development of both these approaches, providing readers with a solid understanding of the overlaps and divergences between the two fields. With a fresh interpretation of theoretical traditions in medical sociology, and an informed commentary on major debates in disability studies, this original text is necessary reading for all students of medical sociology and disability studies.