Functions & definitions of communication

1. Functions & definitions of communication Communication is a tool we use to accomplish specific needs. Various theories posit different functions that are served by communication, including social influence and relational management. In addition, there are a number of different ways of defining communication. The functions and definitions used here are not the correct ones; they are useful for our purposes.

2. Functions of Communication • Primary function – The primary function or use of communication is to create an isomorphic meme state with another . • Secondary Function – The secondary function or use of communication is to influence another.

3. Definition of meme At its simplest, a meme can be thought of as a unit of cultural transmission. We might think of it as a unit of meaning. Most important, however, is that a meme is a replicator, and as such exhibits many of the same properties as a gene, a biological replicator. As a replicator a meme must be bounded and discrete and capable of being imitated. As a unit of meaning, a meme has a cognitive component, an attitudinal component, a value-based component, and an affective component.

4. Definitions of communication Common Elements • Shared symbol system • Problem: Shared symbol system not always available. • Encoding and decoding • Problem: Does not suggest variability in extent of cognitive mediation, i.e., How much does communication rely on cognition? How much of communication is simply stimulus-response?

5. Definitions of communication • Movement of Message from A to B • Problem: Message movement from A to B is characteristic of only a subset of communicative situations; memes never move from A to B. Common Elements

6. Message processing definition of communication Communication is the process by which entities observe and exhibit social stimuli in order to activate, create, or ascertain meme states in other entities with the goal of creating isomorphic meme states with those entities.

7. Advantages of mp definition of communication • Encompasses and calls greater attention to the grounding function of communication in which participants endeavor to associate an agreed-upon meaning with stimulus. • Places locus of meaning in the interaction between stimuli and communicator, not in the message (i.e., messages do not mean anything; they activate meaning).

8. Advantages of mp definition of communication • Meaning qua message is not sent from A to B; rather stimuli with meme activation potential(i.e., MAP) is cast to the proximal environment of the intended communicative participant. • Implicitly focuses attention on creating understanding (i.e., creating an isomorphic meme state) as the primary function of communication. • Any and all levels of mediation are included and can be differentiated, i.e., meme activation can occur with varying degrees of mindfulness.