Understanding Deafness Analysis

615 Words3 Pages
What defines a culture? To grasp the concept, one must first realize that culture is abstract. It is not simple nor wise to attempt to understand culture without knowing that the definition of culture is fluid. Simply put, with further abstract verbiage, every culture has a shared language, interaction, and history. By this brief definition, Deaf people do have a distinct culture. The Deaf community shares a visual language, a specific interaction, and a unique history aside from the overall hearing culture. One of the most noticeable aspects of Deaf culture is its use of ASL in place of spoken language. In the article, “Understanding Deafness,” the controversy of using hearing technology to integrate Deaf people into the hearing world is explored.…show more content…
At first glance, one would assume that a foundation for the Deaf and hard of hearing would be a wonderful resource for the Deaf community. However, the AGB is focused on spoken language rather than signed language. The foundation is a huge supporter of assistive technology, such as cochlear implants, to allow individuals to fit into a hearing society. The intentions, at the surface, seem understandable, though after learning about Alexander Graham Bell’s opinion of deafness, the AGB does not rest comfortably in the mind. I was shocked to learn that Alexander Graham Bell had such disturbing views on Deaf culture – including his stance against intermarriage between the Deaf and the hearing. Bell’s stance, and therefore the AGB’s stance, against sign language is equally as disturbing. Although it is a remarkable option to have such incredible technology to enable some form of hearing, one has to respect the personal decision of each individual. Furthermore, simply because an individual has assistive technology does not diminish the necessity of sign language for that individual or for the Deaf community as a whole. After reading the “Understanding Deafness” article, it is clear to me that the problem with Alexander Graham Bell and the AGB is a lack of education regarding Deafness as a
Show More
Related

  • Essay On Academic Underachievement

    9461 Words  | 38 Pages

    Introduction Education is one of the most important aspects of human resource development and Poor school performance not only results in the child having a low self-esteem, but also causes significant stress to the parents so that , early school success is clearly related to later success and health Promoting optimal child health and development increases the likelihood of school success and is therefore important not only for children's immediate outcomes, but also for their future. Academic

    Read More

More about Understanding Deafness Analysis

Open Document