ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The goal of empowerment is seen as one that expresses a positive vision of the human subject, a process that can help unlock the human potential and thereby enable people to take more control over their lives. Empowering others is presented as a way of allowing people to overcome barriers to their development and become more able to achieve their ambitions. The radical roots of empowerment are long gone, its descendants a compilation of members of government, health and social care professionals, advocacy groups and awareness-raisers. Empowerment as a term is so ingrained within policy and public discourse today and used in such diverse ways that it can at times seem that it can mean whatever its proponents wish it to be. To reclaim real power and control over our lives we need to critically scrutinise both the concept and practice of empowerment.
