Question

In The Mask of Benevolence, Harlan presents evidence of the ways in which psychiatrists and educators, in professional journals and academic studies, brand deaf people as mentally limited and lacking insight, as socially irresponsible and morally underdeveloped, as behaviorally aggressive and impulsive, and as emotionally disturbed (par. 5)

What does brand mean in this context?
a. inflict a mark of identification
b. grant a famous name
c. label

Answer 1

In 'The Mask of Benevolence,' the word 'brand' is used to mean label or stigmatize, negatively affecting the societal perception of deaf individuals.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the context of The Mask of Benevolence, the word brand means to label or stigmatize. This labelling by psychiatrists and educators falsely characterized deaf people with negative attributes, impacting their identity and how they were perceived by society. Such branding can result in stereotypes that overshadow individual identity and contribute to a larger culture of discrimination and bias against those with disabilities, including the deaf community. It reflects a broader issue where individuals or groups are unfairly categorized based on limited understanding or prejudice, rather than recognized as diverse and dynamic individuals.