This article seeks to explore CBR through different perspectives. Based on existing literature and research on CBR, the paradoxes between CBR as ideal and CBR in usual practice, are identified. The dual meaning of 'disability' through 'stigma' and 'empowerment' perspectives is explored, along with the dual understanding of 'community consciousness' as 'individualism' and 'collectivism'. The two dimensions of 'disability' and 'consciousness' together are characterised into four distinct paradigms. Most past rehabilitation services are placed in a stigma-collective paradigm. It implies that philanthropy, inter-subjective value, morality and public awareness of society have usually constructed and supported any help and services for people with disabilities, including CBR. This paper looks at limitations of the past perspectives on CBR, and also points out the need for 'consciousness' studies on CBR. To understand the discrepancies of CBR, people need to look "beyond" CBR as it is commonly understood.