Theories of Communication

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer deals with a detailed overview of the nine theory categories as stated in the works of S.W. Littlejohn regarding communication. The theories and sub-theories involved with each of the nine categories of communication theories are discussed, as well as the premises and important concepts of each theory. The writer notes that the theories in the nine sections on Littlejohn's comprehensive guide allow for more understanding and interpretation into the vast subject of communication. The writer points out that they add to an already great database of academic knowledge that will ultimately lead to greater understanding of the most basic human tool, communication. The writer maintains that this detailed guide is the best way to understand and explain these communication theories.

Outline:
Introduction
Theory
Communication Theories: System Theory
Information Theory
Cybernetics
Communication Theories: Signs and Language
Semantic Theory
Syntactic Theory
Communication Theories: Discourse
Communication Theories: Message Production
Communication Theories: Message Reception
Communication Theories: Symbolic Interaction, Structuration, and Convergence
Communication Theories:Social & Cultural Reality
Communication Theories: Experience and Interpretation
Critical Theories
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"It is important to understand the function that theory has in communication. According to Cohen, the main purpose of any theory is to create a solution for a problem. Theories should therefore, primarily aim to solve problems. This means that the theory presented and used for a certain purpose can be evaluated by determining the importance of the problem that it addresses and the ability of the solution to solve the problem."
"In general it is accepted that theories address a few types of problems. They are, according to Laudan, empirical problems and conceptual problems, as well as the category named by Cohen as practical problems."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Cohen, H. 1994. The history of speech communication: The emergence of a discipline. Annandale, VA: Speech Communication Association.
• Du Plooy, GM. 2001. Communication research: techniques, methods and applications. Lansdowne: Juta.
• Giddens, A. 1984. The constitution of society: Outline of the theory of structuration. Berkeley, CA: University of California Press.
• Griffin, E. 1997. A first look at communication theory. New York: McGraw-Hill.
• Heylighen, C. Joslyn, V. Turchin. 1999. What are Cybernetics and Systems Science?. Cambridge: Polity

More papers on Theories of Communication:

• Essay # 66606 : "General Theories of Communication"
• Term Paper # 133385 : "Failure of Communication at Alton High"
• Essay # 9567 : "Arts of Contact Zone": Theories of Malcolm X"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: