SOCIOL 41 Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Arthur Schuster, Public Space, Interpersonal Communication
Document Summary
Depicts the process of communication as both (1) creating and (2) reflecting a shared context between speaker and listener. Communication involves the exchange of messages using symbols whose meaning grows out of the interaction itself. Each participant needs information about the other"s status, view of the situation, and plans or intentions. Strangers rely on social conventions and rules of interpersonal communication. The interpersonal context influences the production and the interpretation. Language performance must be appropriate to the social and cultural context. Speakers are expected to use language that is: Appropriate to the status of the individuals they are discussing and. Ex: man walking into court won"t tell the judge what"s up man . Public distance (12-25 feet) is prescribed for interaction in formal encounters, lectures, trials, and other public events. Social distance (4-12 feet) is prescribed for many casual social and business transactions. Personal distance (1 feet- 4 feet) is prescribed for interaction among friends and relatives.
