Communication is the process of sending information to oneself or another entity, usually via a language. Specialized fields focus on various aspects of communication, and include Mass Communication, Communication Studies, Organizational Communication, Sociolinguistics, Conversation Analysis, Cognitive Linguistics, Linguistics, Pragmatics, Semiotics, and Discourse Analysis.

Content, form, and destination of human communication

---

Communication is usually described along three major dimensions: content, form, and destination. Examples of communication content include acts that declare knowledge and experiences, give advice and commands, and ask questions. These acts may take many forms, including gestures (nonverbal communication, sign language and body language), writing, or verbal speaking. The form depends on the symbol systems used. Together, communication content and form make messages that are sent towards a destination. The target can be oneself, another person (in interpersonal communication), or another entity (such as a corporation or group).

There are many theories of communication, and a commonly held assumption is that communication must be directed towards another person or entity. This essentially ignores intrapersonal communication (note intra-, not inter-) via diaries or self-talk.

More on [ Communication ]

PC Magazine Cell Phones Product Guide

BlackBerry Curve 8330 (Sprint)
Preview of the BlackBerry Curve 8330 (Sprint).
Hands-On With the zzzPhone
The custom-built Chinese phone actually exists, and we got our hands on it.
Great i, Lousy Phone
Apple must improve iPhone 2.0's call quality.
LG Vu CU920
The closest thing so far to a true iPhone competitor, the Vu has many features Apple's phone lacks but ultimately falls short because it has trouble communicating with PCs.
Verizon XV6900 (HTC Touch)
This Windows Mobile handset would have been innovative had it been released a year ago.
Your Complete Father's Day Gift Guide
Our experts have put together the ultimate list of tech-centric gifts for the discerning dad. This year, get him something he can actually use.

Subscribe to Communications RSS feed