Thursday, January 28, 2010

Communcation between generations

I think the semiotic lens works well with dealing with intergenerational misunderstandings and communication in general because it allows both the young and the old to predict what is understandable to those of different generations. The semiotic point of view could help every generation by identifying which symbols may or may not have the same connotations as they once did. For example, if a man around the age of 70 were speaking to a young woman about sexist issues he should expect that certain words that use to be acceptable to say are now unacceptable and therefore he should change his choice of words to keep the conversation from going sour. Even the way the man spoke to the woman should be planned just in case it was a sensitive subject to her. Planning every bit of communication can in fact help a person become a good communicator. As well, it is important to know that although some words may never change their meaning to some people, they can be interpreted differently no matter what so it is best to try and read the person before saying anything at all. This lens creates a broader perspective in caring about other’s feelings as well as your own. If you take both people into account then there is less of a chance of any miscommunication to take place. [so many this is why parents sometimes don't "get" their kids]
I believe that general-semantics and intergenerational communication go hand-in-hand because I always try and read a person before saying anything that might offend them even if it is unintentional. Though thoughtful planning communication may have fewer misunderstandings that require repairing not every interaction will be successful unless the message is interpreted as hoped. It has long been said to think before you speak because without proper preparation the way you want the interaction to go may not be the result if you are either unwise with your words or even your tone. Anyone feel that they just aren’t understood sometimes…maybe semiotics can help! :)

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