There are many different, unique languages that
exist in the world. Most of these are spoken aloud; however, there are a number
of languages that are not. These are sign languages, and they range from hand
signs used in trading to the sign language used by the Deaf all over the world.
There are two labeled types of sign language. Primary sign language is those
signs used because of an exclusion of spoken language. The sign language used
by one who is born deaf falls into this category. Alternate sign languages are those
that are used instead of speech in certain situations, such as work or trade. Any
country that has a deaf community most likely also has its own form of sign
language. The language is tied to the community, and at times is a part of the
lifeblood of the community. Although these sign languages are different
depending on where in the world they are, Deaf West Theater’s artistic director
David Kurs believes that that act of using body language along with the signs
helps immensely in understanding between sign languages of different countries.
There are many others who agree with this line of thinking, and I myself agree
as well. Body language plays a huge role in any type of communication, and so
for a language that has it built in, it can make it much easier to find common
ground between speakers with different backgrounds. Some of the most incredible
alternate sign languages can be found in the tribes of the Plains Indians.
These sign languages came about in an attempt to create an understanding
between tribes with different spoken languages. Used mainly for negotiations,
this language was highly effective. Plains Indian Sign Language has not been
studied fully in depth, but from what little we have learned, this and other
sign languages are legitimate and fully functional means of communication. Sign
language is a unique and fascinating form of language, that is incredibly
important to the cultures and people who use it for communication.
Sources:
Kurs, D. (2010). The Spectrum of Signed Languages [Web Blog]. Retrieved March 28, 2017, from http://www.tcgcircle.org/2014/02/the-spectrum-of-signed-languages/
Salzmann, Z., Stanlaw, J., Nobuko, A. (2015). Language, Culture, and Society: An Introduction to Linguistic Anthropology. Boulder: Westview Press.
I find it so interesting on how diverse sign language can actually be! Most think of sign language as one language that is the same everywhere. But, actually it is a very diverse language, just like speaking languages. My experience with sign language includes watching signers at concerts or big events. The significance to this is that the society we live in is slowly starting to accept more diverse languages and cultures. By doing this, our culture is starting to slowly shift. It is amazing how communities can be affected by other communities.
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