Language & Communication

Communication for human beings is based largely in our unique use of language.  In the text is actually says the “language has often been used as the defining feature of human beings”   it is what “makes out species unique” (Powell, p.536).  Though language is how we think of communication the most basic definition of communication is “the process of sending and receiving signals of some sort” So in its most basic form communication can be looking at someone a certain way and them responding to that in a way they find appropriate. But as humans we rely on the complexity of language to convey the exact feeling and thoughts we are having to completely communicate with someone.  

The amount of language we process on a day to day basis makes us not always realize how complex language as a form of communication really is.  When you stop to think about it although language is the way to exactly portray wants and emotion many people use it much more abstractly so it must be interpreted much like body language must be interpreted.  Language is used not only as our unique form of communication but it is also used as humans unique form of manipulation.  In both politics and media language is used to communicate with the public but it is also to manipulate the public to think or believe the things that are being said.  

Language can be clarity in communication but it can also be something to hide behind if used in an abstract way and can complicate communication.  Langue is an amazingly unique feature that we as human being use constantly with out ever really stoping to think about how or why we are using it the way we are. 

http://www.science20.com/erin039s_spin/power_communication_psychology_words_and_language_revealed

Powell, R. A., Honey, P. L., & Symbaluk, D. G., (2013). Introduction to learning and behavior. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth Cengage Learning.