A Brief History of Communication

A Brief History of Communication

Definition of “Communication” • The roots of the word communication (communis, or common) accurately portray its purpose. In communication the speaker is attempting to “be one” with the listener. In the process of “being one” we develop a communion, a transaction, a dialogue. At its foundation, communication involves a uniting and exchanging of thoughts. As a result, the speaker is obligated to create a clear picture of reality to stimulate listeners to “make common” his or her thoughts. (Cap 4-5)

How do we communicate? • “Basically, we communicate by using the tools available to us, namely symbols. Verbal andnonverballanguage areessentially setsof commonlyaccepted symbolsto which weattach meaning.”(Capp 5)

Early Communications • Before human beings created languages and alphabets, they communicated with both sound and body language.

Early Communications • Arguably, the earliest humans related feelings and stories through sounds as well as body and hand gestures.

Early Communications • Some of these stories became illustrations, probably drawn in the dust on the ground before eventually developing into petroglyphs, or paintings created on cave walls.

Early Communications • As humankind’s communication abilities developed, other permanent symbols evolved: • Wooden totem poles

Early Communications • As humankind’s communication abilities developed, other permanent symbols evolved: • Wooden totem poles • Egyptian hieroglyphics

Early Communications • As humankind’s communication abilities developed, other permanent symbols evolved: • Wooden totem poles • Egyptian hieroglyphics • Religious symbols like the Star of David and the Christian cross.

Development of Language • Even though scholars were creating ways to write languages, many people were unable to obtain a formal education and could not read these developing alphabets . . .

Language & Symbols • . . . so early commercial signage developed, like the barber pole and other symbols indicating the type of service a merchant provided.

Symbols • Today, this signage has developed into trademarks.

Insignia • Other identifying forms of communication from the past and present include insignia worn by military forces.

Insignia and Flags • These forces often routinely carried flags representing their countries.

Early Military Communications • Before electronic communications evolved, military forces found other ways to relay their plans. Roman soldiers used torches to signal their troops to attack.

Early Military Communications • Even animals were used to communicate important information. Carrier pigeons were instrumental during World War I.

Native American Communication • Native Americans used smoke signals and drums which were actually very effective and could be seen and heard from great distances.

Developing Technology • Another valuable form of communication from the past and still used today is Morse Code.

Developing Technology • When automobiles appeared, traffic signs and signals evolved out of necessity.

Developing Technology • Eventually, units of measure were printed on road signs to communicate distances and acceptable miles per hour for automobile drivers.

Physically Challenged Communication • Individuals who are unable to read, write, see or hear may be able to learn and use sign language and other forms of specially adapted communication technology.

Non-Verbal Communication • Individuals communicate every minute of the day through non-verbal gestures and their choice of dress.

Consider the following photographs: • Can you guess: • Socioeconomic Status? • Relationships? • Age? • Occupations?

Communication in Advertising • What can you determine from looking at the following advertisements?

Communication Today • Cell-phones • Instant Messaging • Photo/Video Options • Texting • Internet • E-Mail • Twittering • Live telecommunications • ??????

Back to the Beginning • Sometimes, however, simply talking face-to-face is truly the most effective type of communication, and this fact is why students should learn how to craft and deliver effective speeches.

A Brief History of Communication