What Can Be Learned About Peace from the Culture of the Deaf?
By David Smith, Jocelyne CostinThere is little communication or understanding in our society between hearing people and those who are deaf. It may be surprising, then, to find that the hearing community can learn more about the concept of peace and peace education by understanding the culture of the Deaf community. Peace education can focus on a number of different levels from inner harmony to constructive international relations. Our focus was on interpersonal relationships and inter-group relationships. In this regard, we believe that there are at least three ways the hearing community might improve our understanding and practice of peace by understanding the Deaf community. Firstly, enlarging our meanings of peace and peace-related concepts can be achieved through a study of the communications system used by the Deaf. Also, recognizing the strong integrating forces that help build community among the Deaf might improve our own skills in creating community. Lastly, developing a deepe
