Can anyone give me a clear-cut answer to the question, what is the definition of communication? The answer is no because there is no clear-cut answer to that question. Defining communication, on the surface, seems like an easy task; however, when one really thinks about it, the task becomes quite complicated. Currently, I define communication as the process of acting on information. Although it is very broad, it leaves a lot open for discussion; which is needed when even attempting to define such a broad topic. That being said, I now have somewhat of a link to the aspect of communication I plan to discuss and expand upon. In John Stewart's book Bridges Not Walls: A Book About Interpersonal Communication, he introduces a very interesting continuum that he names "Qualities of Communication." The continuum categorizes the contexts in which people communicate. Although I feel as if communication is best discussed rather than defined, I feel as though John's continuum is extremely accurate and worthy of being discussed. This paper will discuss John's continuum while also giving insight and analysis on how it allows individuals to realize that humans inherently possess multiple personalities; which may be considered either good or bad.
John's "Qualities of Communication" continuum has three parts; which includes a left, middle, and right or social, cultural, and interpersonal, respectively. In his continuum John expresses that, while involved in daily communicative activities, people move along this continuum. Meaning, different contexts, situations, and activities naturally warrant different responses and behaviors. Reflecting back on my communication encounters today, I cannot find one encounter that does not fit on the left, middle, or right of the continuum. I now have faith in what he is saying. Moreover, when I really thought about it, I decided that why must the continuum be connected only to explaining human communicative contact.
