Communication definition in academic literature
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Communication Definition in Academic Literature: Key Concepts and Theoretical Perspectives
Historical and Etymological Roots of Communication
Academic literature traces the concept of "communication" back to its etymological origins and highlights its emergence across various scholarly disciplines, including linguistic studies, cultural studies, philosophy, and professional sciences. The term has evolved in meaning and application, reflecting changes in society and technology over time .
Core Elements and Models of Communication
Communication is widely defined as a process in which social actors transfer or share symbolic content—such as ideas, information, or emotions—via different media. This process involves a sender, a message, and a recipient, and can occur through verbal, non-verbal, written, or behavioral means. Effective communication requires some form of contact or connection between the sender and recipient, though not always a direct response 38. Many modern models of communication are adaptations of Aristotle’s original model, which emphasized the roles of speaker, subject, and listener, and these models are often tailored to fit specific contexts and purposes .
Interdisciplinary Nature and Theoretical Diversity
Communication is recognized as an interdisciplinary concept, intersecting with fields such as sociology, psychology, political science, philosophy, and cultural studies. This has led to a wide variety of analytical frameworks and research interests, but also to ambiguity and debate about the precise boundaries and identity of communication as a discipline. Communication is variously defined as connection, dialogue, expression, information exchange, persuasion, and symbolic interaction, reflecting its ontological and theoretical plurality .
Conceptual Components and Points of Division
Scholars have identified numerous themes and components in definitions of communication, with some critical points of division. These include whether communication is primarily about transmission or sharing, whether it requires mutual understanding, and the extent to which it is intentional or unintentional. These differences impact how communication theories are constructed and applied .
Functions and Purposes of Communication
Academic research highlights several key functions of communication, including transmission of information, integration of social groups, persuasion, gratification, and cultivation of shared meanings. The effectiveness of communication is influenced by extralinguistic factors such as context, culture, and the medium used 35.
Philosophical and Existential Perspectives
Philosophical approaches, such as those by Heidegger, view communication as a fundamental act of sharing existence with others, making entities and meanings manifest through discourse and language .
Conclusion
In academic literature, communication is broadly understood as a dynamic, multifaceted process of sharing or transferring symbolic content between individuals or groups. Its definition varies across disciplines and theoretical perspectives, reflecting its complex, interdisciplinary nature. Despite ongoing debates about its precise meaning, communication remains central to understanding human interaction, social organization, and the dissemination of knowledge 1356789.
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