This essay discusses the statement: Culture implies some form of communication at the same time communication always happens in a cultural context. First the terms communication and culture are explained - the latter based upon an article by A. M. Klausen. After that the classification system of culture by M. Mead is presented and the different types of culture theories are explained. The essay enters into the description of the hermeneutic culture theory. In connection to this the essay refers to C. Geertz and his term of thick description and also to G. H. Mead and his understanding of the self. The dynamic and dialectical relationship of communication and culture is discussed, mentioning different components as it also places a challenge for education.
Table of Contents
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Classification of Culture
- Culture Theories
- Thick Description
- Cultural Self-Understanding
- Conclusion
- Literature
Objectives and Key Themes
This essay aims to explore the intricate relationship between culture and communication, analyzing the statement: "Culture implies some form of communication at the same time communication always happens in a cultural context." It examines this statement through various theoretical lenses, including definitions of culture and communication, and different culture theories. The essay also delves into the concept of "thick description" and its implications for understanding cultural contexts.
- Definitions of Culture and Communication
- Different Culture Theories and their Application
- The Interplay between Communication and Cultural Transmission
- The Role of "Thick Description" in Cultural Understanding
- The Implications for Education
Chapter Summaries
Introduction: The introduction sets the stage for the essay by presenting the central thesis statement: Culture and communication are inextricably linked, with culture relying on communication for its transmission and communication always occurring within a cultural framework. The author introduces the essay's approach, acknowledging the complexity of defining culture and communication, and promising a discussion based on theories explored in a previous culture education class. The author clarifies their understanding of "formidling" as communication, and offers a working definition based on the Oxford Dictionary's concept of sharing and imparting information.
Classification of Culture: This section likely delves into Margaret Mead's system for classifying cultural transmission between generations. The essay might discuss how Mead's framework illuminates the dynamic relationship between communication and the perpetuation of cultural values, beliefs, and practices across time and between individuals. This framework provides a systematic approach to understanding how cultural traits are learned and disseminated. Specific examples of Mead's classifications and their relevance to communication would be provided.
Culture Theories: This chapter would explore different theoretical perspectives on culture. It could potentially encompass contrasting views of culture, such as those presented by A.M. Klausen, who distinguished between value-oriented and descriptive definitions of culture. The exploration of these diverse theories might highlight the multifaceted nature of culture and its relationship to communication. Specific theorists and their arguments would be examined in detail, revealing the range of perspectives on culture and its connection to communication.
Thick Description: This section centers around Clifford Geertz's concept of "thick description," a method of interpreting cultural behavior by providing rich contextual detail. The chapter likely explains how "thick description" allows for a nuanced understanding of actions and meanings within their cultural context. It would provide examples demonstrating how the interpretation of seemingly simple actions can be radically altered by understanding the cultural background and symbolism involved, further emphasizing the inseparable nature of communication and culture.
Cultural Self-Understanding: This chapter likely explores the concept of self-understanding within a cultural context. It possibly connects to George Herbert Mead's theories of self-development, which emphasizes the role of social interaction and communication in shaping individual identity and understanding. The summary should delve into how cultural values, beliefs, and practices influence an individual's perception of themselves, showcasing communication's pivotal role in self-formation.
Keywords
Culture, communication, cultural transmission, Margaret Mead, Clifford Geertz, George Herbert Mead, thick description, cultural context, socialization, value-oriented culture, descriptive culture, hermeneutic culture theory.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Language Preview
What is the main topic of this essay?
The essay explores the intricate relationship between culture and communication, analyzing the statement: "Culture implies some form of communication at the same time communication always happens in a cultural context." It examines this through various theoretical lenses, including definitions of culture and communication, different culture theories, and the concept of "thick description".
What are the key themes explored in the essay?
Key themes include definitions of culture and communication, different culture theories and their application, the interplay between communication and cultural transmission, the role of "thick description" in cultural understanding, and the implications for education.
Which theorists are discussed in the essay?
The essay draws upon the work of several key theorists, including Margaret Mead (classification of cultural transmission), A.M. Klausen (value-oriented and descriptive definitions of culture), Clifford Geertz ("thick description"), and George Herbert Mead (self-development and social interaction).
What is "thick description," and why is it important?
"Thick description," as defined by Clifford Geertz, is a method of interpreting cultural behavior by providing rich contextual detail. It allows for a nuanced understanding of actions and meanings within their cultural context, highlighting the inseparable nature of communication and culture.
How does the essay define culture and communication?
The essay acknowledges the complexity of defining both terms. It uses a working definition of communication based on the Oxford Dictionary's concept of sharing and imparting information, while exploring different theoretical perspectives on culture throughout the text, including value-oriented and descriptive approaches.
What is the essay's approach to analyzing the relationship between culture and communication?
The essay uses a multi-faceted approach, combining various theoretical lenses, definitions, and examples to illustrate the interconnectedness of culture and communication. It explores how culture relies on communication for its transmission and how communication always takes place within a cultural framework.
What are the chapter summaries included in the preview?
The preview includes chapter summaries for the Introduction, Classification of Culture, Culture Theories, Thick Description, and Cultural Self-Understanding. Each summary provides a brief overview of the chapter's content and its contribution to the overall argument.
What are the key words associated with the essay?
Key words include Culture, communication, cultural transmission, Margaret Mead, Clifford Geertz, George Herbert Mead, thick description, cultural context, socialization, value-oriented culture, descriptive culture, and hermeneutic culture theory.
What is the overall purpose of the essay?
The essay aims to demonstrate the inextricable link between culture and communication, showcasing how they influence and shape each other. It seeks to provide a deeper understanding of cultural contexts and their impact on communication and individual self-understanding.
What is the structure of the essay preview?
The preview follows a clear structure, beginning with a table of contents, followed by a statement of objectives and key themes, chapter summaries, and a list of keywords. This provides a comprehensive overview of the essay's content and approach.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Lea Sedlmayr (Autor:in), 2003, Discussion of the statement: Culture implies some form of communication at the same time communication always happens in a cultural context, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/79145
