Problem of Modern Communication Theories

A central assumption in modern communication theories is that if one can manage human mind and human message then competent communication is possible.

I agree with this assumption. However, modern theories grossly underestimate the complexity and difficulty in managing human mind or message. The approach tends to be something like this: postpone judgment, be open, show empathy, use non-violent words, use "I" instead of "you," complete sentences without leaving anything unsaid. Seems nice and sweet and so very compassionate. And yet....we fail. We fail again and again.

What is worser is that those who have learnt these so-called communication skills believe they have become good communicators without realizing that the receivers of the message do not affirm that belief.

The crux of the problem lies in the approach to communication and to the notion of self. Self in modern worldview is constructed as separate and distinct from the rest of the universe. This worldview holds "us" and "them," "me" and "you" to be realities. Further, communication is considered to be an external, concrete, tangible structure distinct from the self that does the bidding of the self. Challenges to communication are believed to be external-- socialization, culture, socio, economic and political environment, personality, language etc. The human in the communication paradigm is ignored or assumed to be merely a social construct.

Human mind and message are like fish held in your hand--you managed to hold them now, you lost them next moment, you leap and capture them again, they slip out once more. The problem is not with the concept of managing, but with how to continue managing all the time!

Invocation

Invocation

I salute the wise beings in all worlds and pray that this writing may express the knowledge that is already known to you. I seek your guidance and protection in this journey.

May all that I write bring happiness and peace in this world. May I always remember that this knowledge was never mine and that it was given.

With this prayer, I begin this work.

Aum shree gurubhyo namah!