Seeing Voices

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Oliver Sacks, acclaimed as one of the great clinical writers of the 20th century, has captivated readers with his insightful explorations of the human condition in works like Migraine and Awakenings. In his last book, he delved into the lives of the neurologically impaired, earning praise for its wisdom and compassion. Now, he invites readers into the world of the deaf, examining their history and the often misguided perceptions that have shaped their experiences. Sacks reveals how the understanding of deaf culture began to evolve in the eighteenth century, yet many misunderstandings and mistreatments persist today. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing deaf individuals as a distinct community with their own language, culture, and sensibility. The visual-gestural language of Sign has only recently been acknowledged as linguistically rich and complete, highlighting the critical need for early exposure to prevent language deprivation. Sacks recounts the significant uprising of deaf students at Gallaudet University in 1988, a pivotal moment that showcased the deaf community's desire for recognition and autonomy. Through his vivid personal accounts, Sacks raises profound questions that resonate beyond the deaf experience, touching on broader themes of humanity.