How do Cochlear Implants work? What are the advantages and disadvantages? Are they Ethical?
Cochlear implants are electronic devices that are surgically implanted into the inner ear to help provide a sense of sound to individuals with severe hearing loss or deafness.
How they work:
1. A microphone on the outside of the ear picks up sound.
2. The sound is converted into electrical signals and sent to a speech processor worn on the individual's body.
3. The speech processor analyzes and filters the sound, converting it into digital code.
4. The coded sound is transmitted to a transmitter/receiver which sends the signal to electrodes implanted in the cochlea of the inner ear.
5. The electrodes stimulate the auditory nerve, which sends signals to the brain, where they are interpreted as sound.
Advantages of cochlear implants include:
- Improved speech perception and understanding
- Ability to hear environmental sounds and communicate more effectively
- Improve quality of life and social interactions
- Can be used in both children and adults
Disadvantages of cochlear implants include:
- High cost and the need for surgery
- Risk of complications during implantation surgery
- Limited benefits for individuals who have been deaf since a very young age
- May require ongoing maintenance, such as regular programming and adjustments
In terms of ethics, the use of cochlear implants is a subject of debate within the deaf community. Some argue that cochlear implants can be seen as a form of "cultural genocide," as they can be seen as a way to erase deaf culture and promote assimilation into the hearing world. Others contend that cochlear implants can provide deaf individuals with access to a wider range of opportunities and experiences, and should therefore be viewed as a personal choice.
Ultimately, the decision to get a cochlear implant is a personal one that should take into account individual preferences, values, and circumstances. It is important for individuals considering a cochlear implant to consult with a medical professional and consider the potential benefits and drawbacks before making a decision.