Theory
One part of communication might be analyzed as follows.
- A person has a thought in their mind and wishes to duplicate that thought in another's mind.
- The "sender" directs words (symbols) to the "receiver".
- The "receiver" gets these words.
- And then interprets the words and duplicates the thought.
Definitions
- The "sender" may use definitions to help choose the best words... words most likely to give good duplication of the thought.
- The "receiver" may use definitions to help understand the intended meaning based on how people often use words.
- The "sender" may want to use "good language"... language that the "receiver" will duplicate well.
- But the "receiver" needs to know how people actually use the words, not how they "should" use them.
Our Present Orientation
This project emphasizes how people actually use words, rather than how they "should" use them.
We want to hear from you. Please send comments and questions.
See Robert K. Ware
for information about the author and contact information.
Or send comments via the
comment/discussion
forum.