Silence of the Spheres: The Deaf Experience in the History of Science [Hardcover]

Harry G. Lang (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0897893689 | ISBN-13: 978-0897893688 | Publication Date: February 28, 1994

Prior to the publication of this book, there has been a complete absence of literature on the contributions of deaf men and women in science. Written by a deaf scientist, this book is one of the few syntheses of the issues facing deaf people in a particular field of professional endeavor. Because of the highly invisible nature of deafness, much of the information presented by Lang will be new to readers. His research represents six years of archival search among the historical documents of the deaf communities of Europe, Canada, and the United States. The prominent role that deaf scientists have played in history becomes apparent through Lang's presentation of the accomplishments of these talented and determined men and women. The study of deaf scientists is part of the study of other marginalized groups, and finds parallels in African American and women's studies. The issues surrounding technological development, eugenics, and disabilities in general are several of the important themes of this work.

Editorial Reviews

Review

“Lang provides an exhaustive researched history of participation in the sciences by people who are deaf. As a deaf scientist himself, Lang provides an insider's view. In addition to a thorough account of deaf men and women's contributions to the sciences, this book is an excellent historical reference in the areas of deaf education, societal influence on attitudes surrounding deafness, and the effects of technology on the lives of deaf people. Of particular value is the demonstration of accomplishments by people who are deaf. An excellent resource for parents of deaf or hearing-impaired children and for many deaf readers, particularly teenagers who do not have extensive access to deaf role models.”–Choice

“Lang shares an exhaustive summary of the contributions of deaf and hard of hearing individuals to science, engineering, invention, and medicine. This book provides rich reflections into the deaf experience. Reading the book is certain to improve the motivation of individuals with disabilities who encounter similar barriers today, and to bring to light the shared responsibilities of educators to provide all students with opportunities to reach their full potential.”–Journal of Science for Persons with Disabilities

“...more than a compilation of accomplished deaf scientists, mathematicians, and engineers. It is a brick thrown against the "glass ceiling" faced by many deaf people who aspire to technical careers.”–FOCUS

“The meticulously researched Silence of the Spheres brings dozens of deaf and hearing-impaired scientists out of obscurity.”–Disability Studies Quarterly

“...packed with a wealth of information, and concerning issues and people related in complex ways, it is admirably organized and highly readable. I'd strongly urge teachers to recommend this book to their hearing-imparied students.”–American Scientist

“Dr. Lang has written a detailed and interesting book that can be a useful reference for a deaf person who hopes to become a scientist, or for anyone who would like to encourage deaf students to pursue scientific careers.”–Henry J. Adler, Ph.D., research fellow, Kresge Hearing Research Institute

About the Author

HARRY G. LANG is Professor of Educational Research and Development at the National Technical Institute for the Deaf, Rochester Institute of Technology.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 224 pages
• Publisher: Bergin & Garvey (February 28, 1994)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0897893689
• ISBN-13: 978-0897893688
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,391,223 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent book for reference/teaching about science, October 16, 1999

By 

K. L Sadler "Dr. Karen L. Sadler" (Freedom, Pa. USA) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Silence of the Spheres: The Deaf Experience in the History of Science (Hardcover)

This much needed book is a must for all teachers and future teachers of deaf students. It is imperative that these students are taught that others with hearing disabilities have succeeded in an area which has normally been off limits to the deaf. Dr. Lang writes with passion about something he feels strongly about, and gives wonderful examples of these people who succeeded in science despite all the odds and barriers against them. Many scientists and educators will be surprised at the discoveries and work done by these Deaf scientists, because many of these people may have been mentioned in other books but it was never advertised that these people had hearing disabilities. This book should be available in every classroom in which science is taught, just to show students that if these people could be successful in the world of science, that they can too in spite of whatever barriers they face. Science should be for everyone, as Dr. Lang so ably illustrates.