Cochlear implant/deaf world dispute: Different bottom elephants

OBJECTIVE: To examine the controversy between the proponents of cochlear im plantation in children and the Deaf World opponents with the hope of offeri ng a method for decreasing the acrimony of opposing positions. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING (METHODS): The opposing arguments will be presente d from a review of pertinent literature. The systemic philosophic process o f bottom elephant analysis will be elucidated. Contrasting models of power will be described. RESULTS: The application of the bottom elephant analysis of each group's po sition plus a paradigm shift in the utilization of power offers possibiliti es for the implementation of mutually respectful dialogue that does not und ermine each group's stature. CONCLUSION AND SIGNIFICANCE: Philosophic analysis and, paradigm shift could lead to improvement in the interaction of cochlear implant proponents and Deaf World opponents.