International comunications - Essay Example

Communication is also systematic. This means it occurs in within a set of interrelated parts and each of these parts affect one another (Wood 2011. p 3-4). In a family communication situation, for example, each member of the family constitutes part of the system. The physical environment and time also form parts of the system that affect their interaction. This is because people interact differently depending on the existing environment. Therefore, to analyze any communication situation, it is necessary to consider the system in which communication occurs (Wood 2011, p 3-4).

The definition also emphasizes on symbols. Symbols include all language, non-verbal behaviors as well as music and art. A symbol is anything that signifies something else in an abstract manner. All human communication and interaction involve the use of symbols. Lastly, the definition of communication emphasizes on meanings. Meanings take a center stage in a communication process. Meanings are the significance people give to phenomena and are based on people’s interpretation of phenomena. Meanings are obtained from continued interaction with symbols but not from phenomena.

This entirely depends on how people interpret words and non-verbal communication (Wood 2011, p 3-4). Culture, on the other hand, constitutes beliefs, objects, behaviors, and characteristics that can be regarded as common to all members of a given societal group. It is through culture that individuals and groups are able to conform to society’s shared values, define themselves and contribute positively in society. In general, culture includes many society aspects such as language, values, customs, norms, rules, tools, technology, products, institution and organization (Maude 2011, p. 3-10). Communication involves the use of language to communicate messages.

Language can be said to influences culture. Conversely, culture can be said to influence language. Language influences people’s perception