https://doi.org/10.67147/literariness.v1si1.003
Reconfiguring the Self with Deafness: Disability, Technology, and Posthuman Subjectivity in Sound of Metal
ASWATHY O
Research Scholar
St. Thomas College (Autonomous), Thrissur
Affiliated to the University of Calicut
aswathykrishna03@gmail.com
DR. ANU PAUL
Assistant Professor
St. Thomas College (Autonomous), Thrissur
Abstract: There has been an inseparable connection between disability and technology since ancient times. People with disabilities often approach the latest technologies for the betterment of their lives. However, there are scenarios in which technology fails to meet the expectations and satisfaction of human beings in their pursuit of becoming equal to “normal” people. This paper discusses the shortcomings of technology even in the twenty-first century by analyzing the American film Sound of Metal through the lens of affirmative ethics theory.
Ruben Stone, the protagonist of the film and a heavy metal drummer, experiences a sudden hearing loss and is unwilling to accept the reality of his condition. He becomes willing to sell all his belongings, even his drum set, in order to obtain a permanent cure for his deafness. Finally, when he undergoes cochlear implant surgery, he is not satisfied with the result and decides to abandon the pursuit of restored hearing and live in peace for the rest of his life. His willingness to accept his deafness is made possible by the futility of technology. Even though many people with disabilities depend on technology for their survival, there are still limitations to technology, since the human mind craves ultimate perfection in life.
Keywords: Disability, Posthumanism, Technology, Deafness, Disability Acceptance, Affirmative Ethics
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