This keynote presentation is deeply philosophical. In it, Kendrick thoughtfully considers how the assumptions we make (individually and as a society) about vulnerable people impact on their lives - for better or for worse. He identifies 'life-giving' assumptions which empower and enrich people with disability, and stresses that we must be exceedingly careful to recognise the role our values and assumptions play in shaping the way people with disability get treated. Keywords: Attitudes, Social Role Valorisation, Self determination,