#faculty
Eri Yamashita山下 惠理
Associate Professor / Associate Dean
Ph.D. , Tokyo University of Foreign Studies
Email : eyr24202 [at] fc.ritsumei.ac.jp (Replace "[at]" with "@")
Office Location : AC5404
Education History /
Work Experience
Ph.D. in Area Studies, Tokyo University of Foreign Studies
M.A. in International Studies, Tokyo University of Foreign Studies
Specialization /
Research Interests
Research keywords
Ableism/Biopower/Embodiment/Colonialism /Linguistic Hegemony/Technology and Disability/ Cultural Representation/ Disability Discourses from Global South/ Philippine Area Studies/ Deafness and d/Deaf Culture
Specialization / Research Interests
My research lies at the intersection of Disability Studies, Cultural Studies, and Philippine Area Studies. I am currently working on three key areas.
First, I examine how ableism and biopower shape the experiences of Deaf individuals in the Philippines, particularly through economic policies, technological advancements, and the adoption of hearing technologies such as cochlear implants and hearing aids.
Second, I explore Deaf-hearing interactions in everyday life, focusing on family, workplaces, and faith communities, as well as the impact of linguistic hegemony on identity formation.
Third, I investigate transnational Deaf identity formation by analyzing how language and cultural connections, particularly between American and Filipino Sign Languages, influence the experiences of Filipino Deaf migrants. Through this, I aim to contribute to broader discussions on the global mobility of marginalized linguistic communities.
Message to Students
GLA is more than just a place to study—it is a dynamic community where students challenge ideas, explore diverse perspectives, and engage in interdisciplinary learning. Here, you will have the opportunity to examine complex global issues, rethink familiar assumptions, and develop a deeper understanding of culture, history, and society.
My research focuses on Disability Studies and Philippine Area Studies. In my classes, I encourage students to think critically about diversity, inequality, and inclusion from a global perspective. Rather than treating these topics as distant issues, we explore how they shape everyday life, language, and social institutions.
If you are curious about the world, open to new perspectives, and interested in discussing important social questions, GLA offers an ideal environment to learn and grow. I look forward to welcoming students who are eager to think critically and learn together.