Stretton states:
[E]verything from good parenting and child care through elaborate education and public and private research and development to an energetic and friendly culture help to contribute to [society]. Thus parents, teachers, researchers, writers and artists, and business and public managers all contribute to [society]. But so do the energies, skills and friendly and cooperative capacities of the whole population.
This is the argument that is obvious to me that there is a need to recognise any contribution to the work of society by any of its members, irrespective of the financial-reward dimensions of such work. For example, providing services to people with disabilities may not contribute much to economic growth, but it is fundamental to a just society. It provides a foundation for recognising and valuing our common humanity.
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So there it is. I leave these reminiscences to speak for themselves. Thanks to Frank, Michael, Stuart and High. I hope your work continues to inspire students like it has inspired me.
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About the Author
Peter Gibilisco was diagnosed with the progressive neurological condition called Friedreich's Ataxia, at age 14. The disability has made his life painful and challenging. He rocks the boat substantially in the formation of needed attributes to succeed in life. For example, he successfully completed a PhD at the University of Melbourne, this was achieved late into the disability's progression. However, he still performs research with the university, as an honorary fellow. Please read about his new book The Politics of Disability.
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