Human Capacity for Language: Language isn't just about words and sounds, it also involves moral character, intellect, and the essence of being a person. Language shapes our world, our experiences, and our identity. Think of how different your life would be if you grew up speaking a different language!

Deaf Culture and Sign Languages: There are over 200 sign language communities globally, each with its own unique grammatical rules, just like spoken languages! Sign languages are conveyed visually through gestures instead of vocal sounds. But being deaf or partially deaf doesn't automatically make someone a part of deaf culture. It's about communication, shared norms, beliefs, values, and attitudes. Imagine a group of friends who all love skateboarding, they have a shared language (skateboarding lingo) and norms (like wearing safety gear), which makes them a unique community.

Oralism and Its Implications: Oralism is an educational approach aimed at teaching deaf children to lip-read and speak orally to better integrate into hearing communities. This approach started in the late 19th century and has profound implications. It replaced signed languages, which were considered a waste of time and a cause of isolation. But think about it - isn't isolating someone because of their unique way of communication an issue too?

Deafness: A Handicap or a Culture? Throughout the 20th century, deafness was viewed as a deficit, a problem that needed a solution. This led to various tools and practices to 'cure' it. But many criticize this approach as it poses a threat to the deaf community, where deafness is seen positively, forming the basis of a unique culture and knowledge dissemination through sign language.