For my capstone project, I’ll be discussing the recent, little known phenomenon of plurality: a movement embracing and supporting those who “hear voices in their head” not as “crazy,” but as an alternate life situation just like gender or sexuality. Plurality argues that those “voices” are not by their nature inherently dangerous, that they may actually be benevolent, and that it may even be argued that they are people with rights of their own. Many plurals report that their “voices” serve as an ever-present support network and have improved their lives. While there are situations (such as schizophrenia) when medication is necessary, other time attempts at suppression or reintegration can be seriously damaging to the person as the “voices” attempt to fight for survival or the person feels guilt at being forced by therapists to effectively murder their friends. Many plurals are afraid to tell others about their plurality for fear of being called a liar, freak, or crazy, and others cannot get the psychological treatment they need as their therapists ignore all other conditions and attempt to go after the plurality.

For my two media objects, one will be an infographic discussing facts and statistics surrounding plurality, the other will be an animated video explaining terminology and situations surrounding plurality. The infographic will be focused the more factual side of the issue, while the video will emphasize the emotional side, as well as encouraging understanding of plurals, their “headmates”, and their situations.