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Deaf philosophy

What is deaf philosophy? A clear definition from the hearing section of our glossary, with 13 related terms and further reading.

Definition of Deaf philosophy

Deaf philosophy is an emerging sub-field of philosophy covering bioethics, metaphysics, epistemology, while also including elements of linguistics and existentialism. This field and culture of philosophical discussion arose because of linguistic differences between spoken and signed language.

The field of Deaf Philosophy includes both issues influenced by cultural relations to Deaf identity, what it means to be d/Deaf, along with the practice of philosophical discussion among Deaf scholars. Deaf philosophers themselves typically use American Sign Language to communicate concepts and ideas. Discussion of this topic in written scholarship typically occurs in English.

Prominent philosophers in this sub-field include Teresa Blankmeyer Burke, among others.

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What is Deaf philosophy?

Deaf philosophy is an emerging sub-field of philosophy covering bioethics, metaphysics, epistemology, while also including elements of linguistics and existentialism.

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