The Diversity of Sign Languages

The video explores the diversity of sign languages worldwide, highlighting American Sign Language (ASL) and its growing global significance. It discusses the misconception that sign language is universal due to its gestural nature and provides historical context for ASL, tracing its roots back to the 18th century. The video also introduces the Ethnologue database, which catalogs various sign languages, and explains how sign languages develop within communities, often around schools for the deaf.

Discuss the geographical diversity of sign languages mentioned in the text.

What challenges exist in determining the exact origins of sign languages?