Couple Quote by Itzhak Perlman
“In Paris they have special wheelchairs that go through every doorway. They don't change the doorways, they change the wheelchairs. To hell with the people! If someone weighs a couple more pounds, that's it!”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Accessibility Innovation Conference, 2018
Changing tools, not environments, shifts responsibility onto individuals, marginalizing those who differ.
In simple terms: Changing tools, not spaces, blames people.
Key Takeaway
Design inclusive environments, not just adaptive devices.
Themes
accessibility
design
responsibility
Mood
determined
critical
Type
advocacy
philosophical
When to use this quote
- architecture
- product design
- public policy
- education
Key Concepts
human‑centered design
social equity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can spaces be designed for all abilities?
- What responsibilities do designers have?
A Different Perspective
Focusing solely on devices ignores systemic barriers.
