How We Communicate: Defining Human Communications in the Twenty-first Century
This article reflects updates to my theory on Human Communication. In this article, I address the definition of human communication based on my research, as well as accepted models of communication, and my reflections on defining human communication. Drawing upon this research, the article will next discuss how human communication matters in today’s global environment.
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I. Theories of Human Communication: An Introduction
Defining the scope of Human Communication can encompass several theories that have evolved through scholarly research. According to Theories of Human Communication (2007), several scholars have produced their version, including Frank Dance who defined three points for the basic dimensions of communication in his article, The ‘Concept’ of Communication (p. 3). Frank Dance’s dimensions include elements to distinguish communication; the level of observation or abstractness, intentionality, and judgment. Dance’s use of these three dimensions as broad and intrusive, messages with purpose and those that are not, statements of success or accuracy or not, conveys his human communication definition as either social or for business or other gain.
Other modes of thought concerning the scope of human communication are based on whether communication is intentional as well as whether communication must be received. This is an interesting concept since verbal and nonverbal language would affect how the message was perceived and interpreted by the receiver.
As stated in Theories of Human Communication (2007), “Communication, studied since antiquity, became an especially important topic in the twentieth century” (p. 4). As is the case in the twenty-first century, global business has arose out of the advancement in communication technologies. Clear communication is of great necessity to compete successfully globally, and to maintain a market niche or market segment.
This article will address the definition of human communication based on my research, as well as accepted models of communication, and my reflections on defining human communication. Drawing upon this research, the article will next discuss how human communication matters in today’s global environment.
II. Research on Human Communication
To define and develop my theory for human communication, I look to various sources to provide insight and viewpoints. One of these sources is the popular global community of Wikipedia.com.
Performing an online search to research how to define human communications brings a range of responses from the site Wikipedia.com (2007). Wikipiedia provides some insight in to the depth of human communication, with a range of 77 topics that start at Ambiguity Tolerance and end with Watercooler show, a term I was unfamiliar with. Apparently, this term surfaced at the end of the 90s to describe the interaction of co-workers gathered around watercoolers to discuss popular television show episodes, such as Seinfeld. The term also signifies the Superbowl, the World Series and NBA Finals as watercooler material.
Merriam Webster Online (2007) defines communication as 1: an act or instance of transmitting; 2 a : information communicated b : a verbal or written message; 3 a : a process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs, or behavior b : personal rapport; 4 plural - a : a system (as of telephones) for communicating b : a system of routes for moving troops, supplies, and vehicles c : personnel engaged in communicating; 5 plural but singular or plural in construction - a : a technique for expressing ideas effectively (as in speech) b : the technology of the transmission of information (as by print or telecommunication).
This illustrates that communication, derived from the 14th century, takes many forms as it continues to evolve in the 21st century. Human communication, then, can also be described as a dynamic process, evolving through the exchange process.
The most accepted model of communication, developed by C. E. Shannon, defines communication as having a source, a transmitter, a channel, a receiver, and a destination. To elaborate, a person becomes the source and transmits a message through a channel (otherwise known as a medium). The received message reaches its destination, the intended person. The idea environment being that one sends a message and its intention or meaning is received correctly by the destination person. This is not always the case. According to an article by Rich Baldwin, Shannon also states, “A noisy channel can be seen as connected to two stochastic processes- the information source and the noise source” (2005).
Baldwin goes on to state that “an important point to bear in mind is that both the information source and the noise source could both be treated as information sources. The main difference between them is that the receiver is interested in the information source and wants to ignore the noise source” (2005). A diagram helps to illustrate this probable situation of communication with noise. As the illustration reveals, there is quite a high probability of “noise” interference with every communication.
Baldwin, Rich. (2005).Classical Information Theory (Shannon). Retrieved October 19, 2007 from http://www.talkorigins.org/faqs/information/shannon.html.
In respect to human communication, the noise source interferes with the intended message. This may pose a barrier to effective communication in an organization. As a colleague of mine, Josh Cox, has stated, “I believe that for the sender to know that the message was indeed received some type of reciprocation message is needed” (2007). I concur with Josh and believe that repeating is useful. Effective communication in an organization may require an acknowledgement from the receiver to the sender.
III. Defining Human Communication
How do I define Human Communication? Drawing on the scholarly work mentioned as well as the ICS 602 class on August 21, 2007, where our class discussion led to analyze communication and produced a list of over 40 terms, I would begin with a selection of these terms. Human communication first involves and sender and a receiver, with the outcome as some sort of recognition of the meaning. Thoughts can be misconceived if not properly translated from the sender to the receiver. Would most miss-understandings be considered avoidable with more skill and clarity of expression?
Expanding on clarity of expression with communication, it should be stated that diction and emphasis can play a role in the interpretation of the meaning by the sender to the receiver.
Human communication is social or serious in nature or just plain for the sake of a need to be heard or not if no one is around. Emotions can convey the intent of the communication, be it for love, hate, helpfulness, or selfishness, among others. Body language or gestures are also part of human communication and lend to the correct translation of the message by the receiver, or can be a decoy to the intent of the message if emotions, such as fear or intimidation, interfere. How you focus on your delivery of the message, then, is just as important as the message itself. Symbols are a method of communication and are one of the earliest methods of mankind’s attempts to communicate, such as drawings on cave walls, and the symbols of the Greek Language.
In the development of my theory on communication, I believe communication encompasses a person’s lifetime. From the very first breath to the last, there is a desire to and need to be heard, understood, and to understand others; gaining insight and knowledge. To be connected to others, in a sense, is to communicate.
As stated on the website of the Center for Information and Communication Sciences Shared Values, “A tool for the maintenance of relationships, communication is two-way and all are equally obligated to clearly and directly participate. By doing this, we build closer relationships among ourselves” (2007).
Human communication involves active listening, where the exchange of thoughts and ideas with others requires one to focus on what is said and perhaps repeat what is being said to confirm an understanding. As a receiver, then, listening is also vital to comprehending the sender’s intended message.
Human communication also can involve passive listening, where understanding the meaning of what is being said does not require confirming or verifying. Human communication consists of verbal, oral, and written communication. Human communication is really, in my definition, intertwined with relationships we build day by day, as a need to be heard, understood, and to understand others.
IV. Human Communications: The Spiritual Connection
I would also elaborate on what human communication consists of by including a level of spirituality as my belief system consists of the spiritual connection of faith in God. I would state that the nature of being “human” is the need to communicate. My definition of Human Communication would then also consist of an inner-need to connect with God in the sense of a personal communication and relationship.
As a Christian, I feel that communication involves a higher level of connectivity – beyond the norms of face to face, e-mail, letters, phone calls, text-messaging, and other such mediums. There is a conscious level of communication that takes place inwardly through thought and mind – the spiritual connection. Most individuals who consider themselves to have a spiritual aspect will agree that there is more to life than the physical world connections.
I point to the bible to explain my position on human communication at the spiritual level. Genesis 1:1 states, in the beginning was the word, and the word was with God. Word is stated in Merriam Webster Online as 4. GOSPEL 1a c: the expressed or manifested mind and will of God. It is interesting to see that how we communicate with word(s) is based in this context. "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me." (John 10:27) is another verse from the Bible that has significance in providing an explanation for spiritual communication. “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me” (Revelation 3:20).
To further illustrate, I point to the article by Vicki Sultani (2001). “Talking is one form of communication, and communication is imperative if you want to get your point across. There are so many ways that we can all talk to each other, and to God. I can write an email to my friends, or call a cousin on the phone. But how do we talk to God? The answer is simple: prayer. “The distance between heaven and earth is only a prayer away.”
Listening internally, such as with the inner-self, can benefit in a work environment as well as in personal human communication. Taking time to reflect and clear your mind before transmitting a message can prevent a miss-understanding of the intended message.
V. Human Communications in the twenty-first Century Setting
For organizational communication in the twenty-first century to clearly communicate and survive, the text Surviving on Chaos; the Handbook for a Management Revolution (1987), provides a guide that includes capability building blocks (p. 49). Listed as C-7: “Become Obsessed with Listening”, is a management strategy that correlates with human communication and how to manage what Shannon’s model describes as “noise”. C-7 states that an organization needs to include every person and every function in the organization with listening to customers. I would also add value to this by stating that listening to others within the organization also is imperative.
Human communication depends on effective listening, blocking out the “noise”, such as one’s own agenda and job pressures, that can distract. As a colleague of mine, Julie Byrd, has stated, “We allow ourselves to become so busy that we don't hear the "sender" speaking to us.” Listening, then, becomes essential for quality of communication. It is a skill to be coveted and practiced daily with professional connections in any organizational setting.
VI. Human Communication Defined: Conclusions
In conclusion, I restate that human communication is really, in my definition, intertwined with relationships we build day by day, as a need to be heard, understood, and to understand others: gaining insight and knowledge. These relationships are both personal and business in nature, and affect both our social and work paths.
As stated earlier in this paper, communication theory continues to evolve, but is founded on the Shannon model. Shannon defines communication as having a source, a transmitter, a channel, a receiver, and a destination.
Clear communication is a necessity for globally competing in the 21st century. The famous poet, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1729-1832) wrote advice to writers that has merit for management and organizations with a desire to create an environment that can lead to successful market ventures. Goethe said, “If a man would write in a clear style, he must first think clear thoughts.” This holds true in today’s communication within organizations. Taking time to think clearly will allow for better relations with customers as well as with co-workers, functional units, and ultimately, your supervisor.
Expanding on clear thoughts with communication, I would add that clearly stating management objectives is essential for any organization. To focus on the objectives and outcomes, all levels within the organization need to be actively involved in the communication process. Leadership, as a manager, involves how you handle or communicate with your employees.
Dr. Jay Gillette has stated, “communicate clearly by thinking clearly.” For Management to provide leadership in today’s global environment, clear communication and listening is imperative. To be successful, an organization would benefit from the advice offered in Thriving on Chaos, “Listen and provide listening forums. Everyone must be listening, sharing, recognizing small successes, laughing at small failures and urging even faster tries” (p. 396).
Communication theory is evolving even in the 21st Century. Scholars, managers, leaders, and individuals who take time to think clearly and focus on communication skills will benefit in the form of new clients, market niches, and improved relationships with business and personal contacts.
As a colleague of mine, Visakan Jayaswethavanagopal, has stated, “communication occurs all the time and it is important to understand the concepts and barriers in order to make communication effective” (2007). I would end by adding that my own theory of communication has benefited from the insights I gained from my colleagues and classes in Human Communication. Communication theory is a journey for one’s lifetime to pursue and develop as we grow, both professionally and personally, with a goal to communicate more clearly and effectively.
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References
Baldwin, Rich. (2005).Classical Information Theory (Shannon). Retrieved October 19, 2007 from http://www.talkorigins.org/faqs/information/shannon.html.
Byrd, Julie. (2007). Human Communications.
Communication. Merriam-Webster Online. (2007). Retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/communication.
Cox, Josh. (2007). Human Communication Theory II.
Jayaswethavanagopal, Visakan. (2007). Communication-The Human Way.
Peters, Tom. (1987), Thriving on Chaos: Handbook for a Management Revolution. New York: Harper and Row.
Shannon, C.E. A Mathematical Theory of Communication. Retrieved October 9, 2007 from
http://cm.bell-labs.com/cm/ms/what/shannonday/shannon1948.pdf.
Shared Values in CICS. Retrieved October 8, 2007 from http://www.bsu.edu/cics/article/0,,34057--,00.html.
Stephen W. Littlejohn and Karen A. Foss. (2007). Theories of Human Communication. (9th ed.). Belmont CA: Wadsworth Group.
Sultani, Vicki. Communicating with God. (October 2001). Retrieved October 20, 2007 from http://www.antiochian.org/1210.
von Goethe, Johann Wolfgang. (1729-1832). Goethe’s advice to writers.
Wikipedia.com. Human Communication. Retrieved 25 August, 2007 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Human_communication
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