Blindness isn't a tragic binary -- it's a rich spectrum | Andrew Leland
Jul 28, 2023
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Andrew Leland, writer, audio producer and editor, discusses his gradual loss of vision, challenging the binary view of blindness. He explores the paradox of defining blindness as a spectrum, highlighting varying degrees and styles of blindness. This challenges misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding blindness.
Blindness is not a binary condition, but exists on a spectrum with varying degrees and styles of visual impairment.
Blind people can have varying levels of sight and engage in activities typically associated with sighted individuals.
Deep dives
The Complexity of Blindness
Blindness is a complex concept that goes beyond the absence of sight. The speaker, who is gradually losing his vision due to retinitis pigmentosa, explores the paradox of defining blindness. He questions the threshold at which someone can legitimately call themselves blind and highlights the misconception that blind people cannot see at all. While blindness is often thought of as a binary condition, it actually exists on a spectrum, with different degrees and styles of visual impairment. The speaker believes it is important to honor the term 'blindness' for those who rely on assistive technology, but also cautions against perpetuating harmful stereotypes about blind individuals.
Challenging Perceptions of Blindness
The speaker challenges common perceptions of blindness by sharing examples that demonstrate the ability of blind individuals to see. He references a viral photo of a black woman holding a white cane while looking at her phone, generating confusion and debate about her blindness. Highlighting the spectrum nature of blindness, the speaker emphasizes that blind people can have varying levels of sight, some utilizing peripheral vision or perceiving blurry images. He acknowledges the potential consequences of separating blindness into rigid categories, as it can perpetuate stereotypes and limit opportunities for blind individuals. The speaker encourages understanding and empathy towards blind people who may engage in activities typically associated with sighted individuals.
When does vision loss become blindness? Writer, audio producer and editor Andrew Leland explains how his gradual loss of vision revealed a paradoxical truth about blindness -- and shows why it might have implications for how all of us see the world.