How does communication work? - Chapter 15

What is this chapter about?

This chapter is about communication. The chapter explores the process of exchanging information and meaning between people, including the different types of communication, such as verbal and nonverbal communication, intentional and unintentional communication, and conscious and unconscious communication.

The chapter discusses the role of language in communication, including its function as a system of symbols and rules used to convey meaning. It examines how language use can reflect and reinforce social hierarchies and power structures, and how differences in language use can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunication, particularly across cultures. The chapter also discusses the factors that can influence the effectiveness of communication, such as the social context in which it takes place, the clarity of the message, and the interpretation and feedback of the receiver. It explores the different forms of nonverbal communication, such as facial expressions, gestures, and posture, and how they can convey emotions, attitudes, and social status.

Finally, the chapter explores the impact of technology on communication, including computer-mediated communication and its effects on social interactions and communities.

What is communication?

Communication refers to the exchange of information and meaning between people. It can take various forms, such as verbal communication through spoken or written language or nonverbal communication through body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice.

Communication can also be intentional, such as when we make a deliberate effort to convey a message, or unintentional, such as when we communicate nonverbally without intending to do so.

And communication can be conscious or unconscious. Conscious communication refers to communication that is intended and deliberate, where the speaker is aware of what they are saying and how they are saying it. This type of communication involves the active processing and selection of information that is then conveyed to the receiver.

Unconscious communication, on the other hand, refers to communication that is unintentional and automatic, where the speaker may not be aware of the information they are conveying or how it is being conveyed. Examples of unconscious communication include nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language, which can convey emotions and attitudes without the speaker being aware of it.

Effective communication requires not only the clear transmission of information but also the interpretation and feedback of the receiver. This means that successful communication is not just about conveying a message but also ensuring that the receiver understands and interprets it correctly. Feedback from the receiver is essential in ensuring that communication is effective and that the intended message has been received and interpreted as intended.

The social context in which communication takes place can also impact its effectiveness and interpretation. Social context can refer to various factors, such as the relationship between the communicators, the setting in which communication takes place, and cultural norms and values that may influence communication. For example, communication in a formal setting, such as a business meeting, may be different from communication in an informal setting, such as a social gathering with friends. Cultural differences in communication styles and norms can also lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations of messages. Therefore, understanding and considering the social context is crucial for effective communication.

How do we use language to communicate?

Language is a complex system of symbols and rules used to convey meaning, and it is a uniquely human ability to communicate with language. Language plays a crucial role in social interactions by allowing individuals to communicate with each other, express their thoughts and feelings, and share information. However, language is not neutral and can reflect and reinforce social hierarchies and power structures. For example, certain language may be associated with specific social groups, and the use of language can signal social status, education level, or cultural identity.

Differences in language use can also lead to misunderstandings and miscommunication, particularly across cultures. Cultural differences in language use, such as differences in tone of voice, humor, and idiomatic expressions, can lead to confusion and misinterpretation. Additionally, language can be used to exclude or marginalize certain groups, such as through the use of derogatory terms or language that reinforces stereotypes. Therefore, it is essential to be mindful of language use in social interactions, particularly when communicating with individuals from different cultural backgrounds.

How do we communicate without using words?

Nonverbal communication is any form of communication that does not involve the use of spoken or written language. This can include facial expressions, gestures, posture, tone of voice, and other non-linguistic cues. Nonverbal communication can convey a range of information, including emotions, attitudes, and social status, and can be more powerful than verbal communication in some situations.

However, nonverbal communication can also be ambiguous and subject to interpretation. For example, a facial expression may be interpreted differently by different people, and nonverbal cues can be influenced by factors such as cultural norms and personal experiences. Cross-cultural differences in nonverbal communication can also lead to misunderstandings and conflict. For instance, the meaning of a gesture or posture may vary across cultures, leading to confusion or offense.

Despite its potential for ambiguity and misinterpretation, nonverbal communication is an important part of social interactions. It can be used to convey empathy, build rapport, and communicate social norms and expectations. Therefore, understanding and being mindful of nonverbal communication is crucial for effective communication and social interactions.

How can people have conversation and discourse?

Conversation is a form of communication that involves turn-taking, feedback, and mutual understanding between participants. Conversational norms and rules can vary across cultures and social contexts. For example, some cultures may place a greater emphasis on maintaining harmony in conversations, while others may encourage more direct and confrontational communication styles.

Discourse refers to larger patterns of language use and communication, such as storytelling, persuasion, and argumentation. Discourse can reflect and reinforce social norms and ideologies, and can be used to challenge or resist dominant narratives. For example, discourse can be used to reinforce gender stereotypes or challenge them by promoting gender-neutral language and challenging traditional gender roles.

Discourse can also be used to challenge or resist dominant social norms and ideologies. For instance, political discourse can be used to promote social change by challenging oppressive power structures or advocating for marginalized groups. Therefore, discourse can play an important role in shaping social attitudes and promoting social change.

What is computer-mediated communication?

Computer-mediated communication is any form of communication that takes place through digital devices, such as computers, smartphones, and tablets. With the advent of new technologies, such as social media, email, and text messaging, it has become an increasingly common way for people to communicate with each other. This form of communication has several advantages, including the ability to connect with people who are geographically distant, to communicate asynchronously (i.e., without having to be available at the same time), and to reach a large number of people quickly and easily.

However, computer-mediated communication can also have some disadvantages. One of the main drawbacks is the lack of nonverbal cues, such as tone of voice, facial expressions, and body language. These cues are an important part of communication and can help to convey emotions and intentions accurately. Without them, it can be difficult to interpret the meaning behind messages, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts.

Another potential disadvantage of computer-mediated communication is the ability to edit and revise messages. While this can be useful for correcting errors or improving clarity, it can also lead to misinterpretation and confusion. It can be challenging to determine the intended meaning of a message that has been edited or revised multiple times, particularly if it was unclear to begin with.

Despite these challenges, computer-mediated communication can also contribute to the formation of online communities and identities. Social media platforms, in particular, provide users with the opportunity to connect with others who share similar interests, values, or experiences. These online communities can provide a sense of belonging and social support for individuals who may feel isolated or marginalized in offline settings. For example, people with disabilities or chronic illnesses may find it easier to connect with others who share similar experiences online than in their local communities.