In paragraphs 4 and 5, Schaffer uses two claims to demonstrate that Sherpas' lives are undervalued by those who are climbing Everest.
1. The first claim is that Sherpas are often treated as mere "porters" or "hired help" by climbers.
2. The second claim is that Sherpas face significant risks and dangers while supporting climbers on Everest, but their sacrifices and achievements go unnoticed or unacknowledged.
1. The first claim is that Sherpas are often treated as mere "porters" or "hired help" by climbers. Schaffer points out that climbers may rely on Sherpas to carry their gear, set up their camps, and fix the ropes on the mountain, but they fail to recognize the skills, knowledge, and experience that Sherpas bring to the expedition. This undervalues the Sherpas' expertise and diminishes their role in the climbing team.
For example, Schaffer mentions that Sherpas have extensive knowledge of the mountain and its conditions, and they are able to navigate treacherous terrain with ease. Yet, climbers often overlook their contributions and see them solely as laborers, not as equals in the climbing endeavor.
2. The second claim is that Sherpas face significant risks and dangers while supporting climbers on Everest, but their sacrifices and achievements go unnoticed or unacknowledged. Schaffer highlights that Sherpas take on physical, mental, and emotional burdens to ensure the success of the expedition. They face altitude sickness, extreme weather conditions, and even the threat of avalanches.
To illustrate this point, Schaffer mentions the tragic incident in 2014 when 16 Sherpas lost their lives in an avalanche while preparing the route for climbers. Despite the risks they face, Sherpas often receive minimal recognition or compensation for their efforts, which further underscores the undervaluing of their lives.
Overall, through these two claims, Schaffer emphasizes the underappreciation and undervaluation of Sherpas' lives by those who are climbing Everest, highlighting the need for a more equitable and respectful approach towards the Sherpa community.
The complete probable question could be "How does Schaffer use specific examples of Sherpas' contributions and the unequal treatment of their lives in paragraphs 4 and 5 to emphasize the undervaluation they experience from climbers on Everest?"