What does this research mean for the field?

Recovering historical understandings of Christian martyrdom allows profound intellectual disability to be conceptualized as a form of martyrdom that protests ableism without necessitating suffering and death. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.INCREMENTAL. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.NEUTRAL.

What question did this study set out to answer?

To examine historical Christian concepts of martyrdom and determine how individuals with profound intellectual disabilities can be conceptualized as martyrs who actively protest ableism.

August 30, 2026Journal of Disability & Religion

Disability and Martyrdom, Reconsidered

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To examine historical Christian concepts of martyrdom and determine how individuals with profound intellectual disabilities can be conceptualized as martyrs who actively protest ableism.
Conducted a conceptual analysis engaging theological frameworks of disability witness developed by scholars Frances Young and John Swinton.
Utilized the theological method of ressourcement to retrieve historically neglected understandings of Christian martyrdom.
Demonstrates that historical Christian traditions include definitions of martyrdom that do not depend upon physical torment or death.
Proposes an expanded theological framework wherein the presence of people with profound intellectual disabilities functions as an active martyrdom and critique of ableism.

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Implication

Theological analysis redefines martyrdom for individuals with profound intellectual disabilities, highlighting a form of anti-ableist witness that does not require suffering or death.

Cite This Study

Benjamin N. Parks (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a93f0ce6c1a8fb52e79d43f https://doi.org/10.1080/23312521.2026.2721984

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Implication

Theological analysis redefines martyrdom for individuals with profound intellectual disabilities, highlighting a form of anti-ableist witness that does not require suffering or death.

Disability and Martyrdom, Reconsidered

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Discussion

Implication

Cite This Study

Disability and Martyrdom, Reconsidered

Key Points

Discussion

Implication

Cite This Study

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