Silence of the Spheres: The Deaf Experience in the History of Science

(Hardback)

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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 His research represents six years of archival search among the historical documents of the deaf communities of Europe, Canada, and the United States.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.

Reviews

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

Author Bio

HARRY G. LANG is Professor of Educational Research and Development at the National Technical Institute for the Deaf, Rochester Institute of Technology. He has written more than 35 articles and essays on science education and Deaf studies.