Ashford 2: – Week 1 – Discussion 2

Four Perspectives on Communication

Our text discusses four different   theoretical perspectives on communication. Consider each of these   perspectives and answer the questions below about these perspectives. Respond   to at least two of your fellow students’ postings by Day 7. (You must create   one initial post and at least two responses, for a minimum of three posts for   this discussion.)  Consider the psychological        perspective. In what ways do you believe that what goes on inside        people’s heads (beliefs, values, attitudes, etc.) affects their communication?         Consider the social        constructionist perspective. How do we “build worlds” through        communication? Think of some ideas we talk about in our culture that may        not exist in other cultures. How do these concepts contribute to our        happiness or success (or lack of them) in our culture?  Consider the pragmatic        perspective. How is communication like a game? How is it different from        a game?  Consider the cultural studies        perspective. What is the goal of a researcher who takes a cultural        studies approach?  Which of these perspectives        is closest to your own view of communication?