Sign Language Linguistics

This book is based on an in-depth filmed conversation between Howard Burton and renowned researcher of sign languages Carol Padden, the Sanford I. Berman Chair in Language and Human Communication at UC San Diego. This extensive conversation covers topics such as growing up with ASL, Carol’s early work with Bill Stokoe, the linguistic complexity, structure and properties of ASL and other sign languages, the development of new sign languages throughout the world, the role of gesture and embodiment, and much more. This carefully-edited book includes an introduction, Heeding the Signs, and questions for discussion at the end of each chapter: I. Choosing languages - Faulty assumptions and different sides II. Distance Education - A formative experience III. Signing as Language - Bill Stokoe and the development of ASL IV. Diversity and Structure - The many shades of sign languages V. Distinctiveness - Language, identity, and the question of affordances VI. Embodiment - Making sense of the world around us through our bodies VII. A Cultural Window - Change, humour and balance VIII. Predictions and Proclivities - Speculations on the future, fillers and gender markers IX. Examining Diversity - Brain scans, sign-twisters and gesturing Italians X. Making Comparison - Efficiency, community and complexity About Ideas Roadshow Conversations Series: This book is part of an expanding series of 100+ Ideas Roadshow conversations, each one presenting a wealth of candid insights from a leading expert through a focused yet informal setting to give non-specialists a uniquely accessible window into frontline research and scholarship that wouldn't otherwise be encountered through standard lectures and textbooks.