Last Week - Discussion 3

Pick one other concept in the book that you feel needs further discussion?

One concept that i would have like to have discussed more was the theory of the medium being the message by Marshall McLuhan's.  I understood what he meant that different mediums can deliver different messages, and can in fact help shape the message.  But the idea or Hot and Cold mediums got me sort of confused.  I guess I would have liked to of discussed it a bit better so I could have got a complete understanding of what the book was trying to convey. 

They reason I would have liked this one to of been discussed more was because I feel it is a very important theory and I think that its very important for me, because I work in outreach.  I have different messages for different audiences and it would be good to have a better understanding of which mediums would reach my different audiences with different messages most successfully.

Enjoy your summer!!!!!

Last Week discussion 2

What concept/s in this class have you found most interesting? What was it about that concept/s that you found interesting?

As mentioned in a previous post, I really, really found CMC or computer mediated communication to be really interesting. Its just so interesting how communication has been able to develop with new technology. 30 years ago no one would have imagined creating new relationships, communicating with family and friends or even getting stalked, via a computer. Computers have really changed the way we live and communicate.

And the interactivity of CMC is developing daily. I was just watching a commercial for 1-800-dentist today and it was a woman who is talking about wanting to go online and be able to chat with a live person on the website. And they hve it! I couldnt even imagine this 10 years ago. Its instant just like on the phone, but more convienient because you could do it while your online.

I remember when I knew peopel who first started dating online about 10 years ago. It seemed like such a foreign idea. My friends mom met her boyfriend online and they got married and I was so surprised. But now it seems like a totally normal thing to do.

Last week- Discussion 1

Which of the research methods listed in Table 13.3 seem the most interesting? Assume you want to study some aspect of deception. Frame a research question. Which method would you choose to answer the question. Why?

The most interesting research method that I found was Ethnography. Its interesting to me because you actually do and act like them and get to see them as they are. They are actually in their natural environment. I think it would be really interesting to partake in this research method. This way people would not lie and try to make themselves look different then they really are.


If I were to study an aspect of deception I would use research from surveys. I am interested in people who cheat on their spouse, because I dont understand why. I would have to find people who have cheated in their past or currently are. I would survey questions to find the most common reason. The research question I would use, would be "Why do individuals cheat on their partner do so?" I think they would be more inclined to answer truthfully through an anonymous survey.

Week 13- Discussion 3

One concept I found very interesting in this chapter was the medium of New Media and how it is going global and mobile. Media is digitalizing; the difference of snail mail and email can be the difference of getting a media coverage or not (in the PR world.) In PR classes our professors dont even teach us to send out old school, snail mail press kits anymore. Everything we learn is digital now.

An interesting concept having to do with new media is interactivity. This is when receivers are able to engage with the senders. This can be done through online polls, chate lines, and even online focus groups or things such as facebook groups or messages. A great example of this is CNN. When they cover stories now they ask for you to interact with them using mediums such as Twitter. Its actually very interesting and many tv shows and using this as a way to get their viewers opinions and feedback.

Enjoy your weekend,

ImaginePeace

Week 13- Discussion 2

Do you agree with Marshall McLuhan that the medium is the message, i.e. that the format or logic of a medium is as important as its content and, in fact, determines what content will be broadcast through that channel? Evaluate his idea that television is a cool medium.

 

In my major (PR) we definitely study how important the medium is.  You may have a fantastic and interesting message, but if it doesn’t hit the audience in a way they can compute (or hit them at all), then the message is completely lost.  As society and technology changes and advances we always have to stay mindful of the medium.   The content of the medium is the juicy piece of meat a burglar uses to distract the watchdog.

 

Initially I completely disagreed witht eh idea as TV being a “cool” medium.  I always felt it was equivalent to the movies.  But when I thought about it, TV as a cool medium actually makes sense.  I have a habbit of doing HW infornt of the TV.  I could watch a movie and do HW and would be okay, but the movie would probably be more stimulating and keep me from doing HW.  But when I try to watch TV and do hw it never works out well.  Its like to watch tv it takes a lot more effort and paying attention.  And thank god for having DVR because I must hit rewind 20 times during a 30 minute show, it takes a lot of effort and concentration.

 

Week 13- Discussion 1

Have you made friendships that exist exclusively in cyberspace? If so, how are they different from f2f relationships? If you have not formed cyber relationships, why not?

I remember the summer between 8th grade and freshman year of highschool I got my first computer and my parents were trusting (or naïve) enough to let me put it in my room. I had internet, AIM and my best-girlfriends and I discovered chat rooms. I remember we would go in these rooms and would mess with people so much. I feel really bad now, but at the time we thought it was fun. We would find guys and make them think we were into them/build a relationship then do bratty things. Of course we lied about everything we said, gave fake locations, names and pictures. These relationships differed from face-to-face because in real life I could never be so fake, catty and mean as I was on there. Online I would act and say things that I could never do in real life. In real life I could never be a fake person, but you can online, which leads to creating fake relationships. Online you have the opportunity to be anyone you want to be, and the other person could have no idea who you really are.

Week 12- Discussion 3

Pick one concept from the assigned reading that you found useful or interesting and discuss it.

One part of the book I was particularly interested in this chapter was about interviewing skills.  As I will be graduating, this is something that is very important for me in trying to land a job.  As the book says, you have to start with preperation.  One thing that everyone tells me to do, and the book backs up, is to research the company.  You need to show up knowing about the organization you are interviewing for.  Another important part of prepping is having a great resume and cover letter.  One thing that I believe helped me get my current job was done during the interview, asking questions.  In the book it says to prepare by anticipating the questions the organization may ask you, but you should also ask the organization questions.  I think this shows them that you are really interested in the organization and the position at hand.

But what do you do if they ask you questions you find inappropriate?  The book says there are 3 choices 1.) simply answer the question (if you feel comfortable doing this), 2.)discuss the concern that prompted the question, 3.) refuse to answer the question and tell them you thought it was inappropriate.

Have a good weekend,

ImaginePeace

Week 12- Discussion 2

Review the etiquette rules suggested in the text. Respond to each one. Have you ever been bothered by cell phone, answering machines, or beepers? What do you feel about call waiting? Is it rude to put people on hold to take another call?

As for the books rules, I would have to say that I agreed with some, but not will all.

I think that the one peeve that most people would agree with are cell phones. The book was reading my mind by saying that it is rude to talk on phones, I especially think it is when at dinner or while in a movie. But although many people agree that this is rude, that doesn't meant hat they always follow this etiquette. I even catch myself answer my cell phone some times when I am out to dinner. Looking back, I am disappointed in myself.

I used to work at a restaurant and a large table would want to order. It would get so annoying when one of the people would be on their cell and act like it was a bother for them to tell the person to hold and order. Or sometimes they would make me wait to finish their call. They obviously don't know proper restaurant etiquette.

At work I am forced to do many conference calls. I think that it is true that you should have to identify yourself in the beginning. This way the people on the call can try to identify the voice with the person. I even think it is appropriate to identify yourself throughout the call before you speak. It really just makes it easier for all involved.

Part of professional behavior and etiquette ties in the answering machines. Although I love to hear different and funny answering messages, I guess it isn't the most professional thing to do. Also I get really upset at work when people call and don't leave their phone number in the beginning AND the end of the message. Because sometimes when they leave their number just at the end and if I miss the number I have to go back and listen to the whole message again…its really frustrating. And when they leave a long message, it is even worst. I feel that it is just proper etiquette to AT LEAST leave it in the beginning.

Week 12-Discussion 1

1). How are organizations tied to the environment? What is the relationship between the school you attend and the city or town in which it is situated? What, if any, ethical obligations does an organization like a college or university have to the local community?

Organizations are tied to the environment in many different ways, they all have an effect on the surrounding environment.  

Without outsourcing, organizations use people within the neighboring community to employ at the company.  This helps to stimulate the local economy and effects the environment.  Another way they are tied to the environment is by using resources and effecting the actual eco-system environment.  To increase the companies image they may try to portray themselves as "green" this effects the environment as well.  Some companies are now building green and getting certified as LEED buildings.

It would be near impossible for a college or university to not effect the local community.  San Jose State not only stimulates the economy is San Jose, but it effects most of the city.  I found out today that San Jose State University is the oldest public university in California.  All of downtown was built around the campus.  This means that often people who go to school shop, eat, party and live around the school )although we are known as a commuter school.)

If a city is known as a good area it will help to promote the image of the school.  But the city helps the school as well.  Thus a city does have an obligation to give back to the community.  This is best done through scholarships for underprivileged, local students.

Best regards,

ImaginePeace

Week 11- Discussion

Pick one concept from the assigned reading, that we have not already discussed, that you found useful or interesting, and discuss it.

One part of chapter 6 that I found really interesting was the section on becoming a more responsible communicator.  I am sure that everyone knows a person who you hear speak and say "Did they seriously just say that?"  I know that I have a relative that asks the most inappropriate questions and I cant help but wonder if she has any sensor.  Hearing other people communicate irresponsibly makes me feel incredibly awkward, even if it has nothing to do with me.

Melinda Kramer has come up with two different tests to find out if some way you are communicating is ethical or unethical.  One is the public security test.  This test consist of asking yourself three different questions. 1.)  Am I personally proud of this action? 2.) Am I comfortable with this decision? 3.)  Would I feel uncomfortable or embarrassed if this decision were known to my colleagues, friends, spouse, or children?  Although it may be impossible to answer yes to all of these questions all of the time I feel that I am comfortable with my answer to these questions most of the time.

The second testis he four-way test which is consisting of four different questions.  1.)  Is is the truth? 2.)  is it fair to all concerned?  3.)  Will is build goodwill and better friendships?  4.)  Will it be beneficial to all concerned?  Again I may not be able to answer yes ALL the time, I feel good about answering yes for the most part.  But afte reading this section I believe I will find myself asking these questions to myself before I communicate.  For example last weekend I left a message on my friends phone.  I thought it was funny but after hanging up I realized it may come off a bit inappropriate.  When she did not call me back right away I became paranoid that she took the message the wrong way and did not want to contact me.  Turns out that was not the case, but it definitely taught me a lesson.  Before I communicate I will stop think, then follow through.

Best wishes,

ImaginePeace

Week 11-Discussion 2

Think about the filters you use to eliminate people from consideration as potential romantic partners. What characteristics or behaviours lead you to judge others as unattractive? Does Duck's theory make sense to you? Have you ever eliminated someone by using a sociological or pre-interaction cue only to reconsider them based on interaction and cognitive cues?

I don't think I could do a long term relationship, I feel the stress of distance could take a toll on both people and the romantic relationship, thus this part of sociological or incidental cue would be hard, and make a potential mate less attractive to me. Although it would be a different situation if we were already dating before the distance. This also is the case with physical proximity, but someone too close becomes unattractive to me as well. I don't like someone to around all the time, I need my space. Pre-interaction cues plays a role as well. I may look for a guy who physically takes care of himself, but not too much (I don't like big muscles.) I agree with what it says in the book, the old expression "you never get a second chance to make a first impression" really is true. The most important cue for me to weed out potential romantic partners is the interaction cue. If I cant not hold a stimulating conversation with someone, they become extremely unattractive to me.

Ducks theory states that we use filters to judge how close we want to become while we weed out potential partners through every filter. So I completely agree with him. We may not knowingly be using these filters, but when you stop and think about it, we all do at some point or another.

When it comes to eliminating someone based off pre-interaction cues, I am sadly guilty as charged. I may not consider a guy because he isn't my typer, or he looks like "a dumb joke", but when I interact with him he may completely prove me wrong.

Week 11-Discussion 1

Which pattern (rigid complementarity, competitive symmetry, or submissive symmetry) do you think would be the most difficult to change? Why? Which would be the most damaging to a relationship? Which would be the most potentially damaging to the self-esteem of the individuals involved?

I think that the pattern that would be the most difficult to change would be submissive control. I am pretty indecisive, so I need to be around people who are more decisive or else we would be stuck saying "I don't care, you decide" every time we tried to make plans. A situation of two indecisive people could put a lot of strain on a relationship because both wants the other to decide. I know when I am with a friend who does not want to make the decision either I get super frustrated and I am sure they must feel the same way that I do.

As for the most damaging, from my experience the most damaging pattern to a relationship has been from rigid complementary. I have had friends that always have to be in control, and although I am pretty submissive, but my relationships with control freaks never seem to work out. Its sort of like, you have to give a little to get a little, and the control person doesn't seem to want to let go enough to give some control to someone else.

The patter that could have the most damage to self-esteem would most likely by competitive symmetry, I think. Compeition can easily lead to a bruised ego and damage to ones self-esteem..

Week 9- Discussion 3

Pick one concept from the assigned reading, that has not already been discussed during this discussion week, that you found useful or interesting, and discuss it.

The concept I found extremely interesting are the Characteristics of Cultures. I find it interesting that the book said that cultures are learned. The book mentions that Americans act like other Americans because this is a learned act. I never thought about it before, but when I do, I find that I completely agree. If I did not grow up around a big, loud, Italian family, I wouldn't act like a loud Italian person.

I also Agree with the book saying that cultures are shared. As humans we want to fit in. This is anotehr reason why we act like our cultures, to fit in. But because cutlure is shared we are not able to act exactly how we want, because it may not be how to culture acts. Cultures have many rules and regulations, and in order to fit into that culture we muct follow them. I would imagine it would be very hard for members of a minority group dealing with a shared culture, or those who identofy with mulitple cutlures, such as someone whos mother is father is Christian and mother is Jewish.

Another thing is looking at how cultures overlap. I consider Cathoic and Italian as overlapping. Althoguh they could be considered 2 different cultures to me they overlap and I consider them both as part of mine. Its liek in Italy, altough they may not attend mass on a regular masis, they still consider themselves Catholic, because they see it as part of their Italian culture.

Best regards,
ImaginePeace

Week 9- Discussion 2

Do you believe in the rationality, perfectibility, and mutability premises? What social institutions and practices are based on these beliefs?

Rationality: I DO believe. Many people use rationality to make good decisions on a daily bases. The book defines rationality as "the belief that most people are capable of discovering the truth through logical analysis - underlies many American institutions, including democracy, trial by jury, and free enterprise, all of which are based on the idea that the average person can be trusted to make good decisions." Based off this definition is hard for me not to agree with it. I think that the US was based on this idea, which is why we are a democracy, they trust us to make the right decision.

Perfectibility: I DO NOT agree with this theory as it seems to be based on religion. By looking as everyone as sinful it may not b helpful at all. Many people only live up to the expectations that are set for them. If we dont expect people to make the right decisions, they may wont. I believe every person is born pure at heart, although this may not stay thrue their whole life. Although many religions are based on this theory.

Mutability: I Do believe in this. In fact, I believe in this one the most. I think someones environment plays a strong effect on the choices they make. For example, if someone grows up around gangs and violence, it is a very strong chance they will fall into that as well. This is why their are organizations like Big Brother and Big Sister that try to step in and break the cycle.

Week 9- Discussion 1

Do you agree with anthropologist, Ruth Benedict that we are “creatures of our culture” and that our habits, beliefs and impossibilities are shaped by our culture? If so, how can we break through the limits of our cultures?

I agree strongly with Ruth Benedict that culture shapes who we are. But I also beleive that we can break the limits to create our own identity. I will use my father as an example. My father came from very conservative familes. Growing up he considered himself politically conservative, based on the way he was raised. On his 18th birthday he registered republican and made his father proud, he did what everyother child in his area did. It was not untill he moved away from his small town in Illinois that things started to change. Now he may be the most liberal man that ever came out of Chatam, Illinois...his family is not too happy with that.

For my father is was when he moved to California (from Illinoise) he was able to experience another culture in California. So even though the culture of the mid-west influenced him greatly experiencing another culture opened up his mond and he saw that their were other ways to view things then just the way he viewed things growing up.

This has lead me to believe that the best way to break cultural limits is to experience other cultures. It opens up your eyes to see things you may not have if you didnt.

Week 7- Discussion 3

Pick one concept from the assigned reading, that has not already been discussed this week, that you found useful or interesting and discuss it.

I found the section about Physical Appearance really interesting. The book points out that professional designers are trained in arranging elements to create a cohesive piece, and in a way we are all designers.

We use our image as a way to create an overall effect and send a message about ourselves. This section featured a quote by Mark Knapp, "Physical attractiveness may be influential in determining whether you are sought out; it may have a bearing on whether you are able to persuade or manipulate others; it is often an important factor in the selection of dates and marriage partners. (pg. 130)

Parts of physical appearance are body type and dress. No matter the culture, there are always strong reactions to people body types. But within different cultures, what is attractive and acceptable body types differ. What is fat in one culture is beautiful in another. In America most citizens are overweight, but we tend to dislike obesity. This leads to an increased number of anorexic and bulimic people.

Dress is also important. The three main factors of dress are comfort-protection, modesty and cultural display. Because dress is a nonverbal sign it serves as a sign of a persons character, whether they mean it to or not, and it often leads to peoples first impressions.

Best regards,
ImaginePeace

Week 7- Discussion 2

Although nonverbal messages are more universal than verbal messages, nonverbals do not always carry the same meanings in other cultures. Can you give examples of some of the nonverbal displays that take on different meanings in other countries? If you have moved around within this country, have you ever encountered regional differences in nonverbal meaning?

Different countries use different forms of nonverbal communication based on aspects of their culture.

I think a very obvious example of nonverbal communications are gestures. Signs that are rude in one culture, may not be rude in another. While signs that are not rude is a culture may actually be rude in another. On interesting example of this is "flipping the bird". My old teacher was British. She said the sign in the U.S. that we know as flipping someone off (I had an image of a middle finger here, but realized it could be appropriate), with the middle finger going up had no meaning in the UK when she was growing up. If you were to do this to someone from the UK, it would have had no meaning, unlike if you did that to someone in the U.S. (it is now more universally understood there then when she was growing up.)

The sign that they would give in the UK to give the same meaning us the American middle finger was this ---> Here we began identifying this as the peace sign in the 1960's. Two very different meanings, based on different cultures.

Studying in Italy I have also learned signs that have significant meaning there, but not to people here. Its actually pretty cool because I can non-verbally tell someone to go to hell, and they have no idea...not that I WOULD or anything :)

Regionally, different areas have their own nonverbal code. This is extremely prevalent for the bay area, especially with the "hyphy" movement. People can "thiz face", and you know they are using bay area facial gestures.

Happy blogging!
ImaginePeace

Week 7- Discussion 1

Because nonverbal messages can be ambiguous, they are open to misinterpretation. Have you ever been wrong about the meaning of someones nonverbal message? Describe what happened. How can people increase the accuracy with which they interpret nonverbal message?

Non-verbal communications can some times lead to messages being completely different then you originally thought it was. One thing that I continually get mixed up is when someone doesnt feel good and when they are mad.

When I get mad I don't talk, I cross, my arms and I tend to roll my eyes, slam doors, act disinterested, ect. But I tend to always assume this is the case for others. This actally happened to me just last weekend. My best friend and I always get together every week to hang out. Last week she was pretty stressed out from work and school, plus she was having problems with another friend. All of this was taking a weight on her.

She had her arms crossed most of the night when we were hanging out, and she was pretty quiet do to the fact she was thinking about all of her stresses. She also wasnt smiling as much as she normally does. By the end of the night I had t ask "Did I do something to make you mad?". She was confused as to why I would even ask her that. I told her all of my reasoning and this is when she explained her situation.

The best way to interpret non-verbal communications is to clarify before assuming the meaning. Because one persons non-verbal communication may have a different interpretation then another persons.

Have a great week!
ImaginePeace

Week 6- Discussion 3

Pick one concept from the assigned reading that you found useful or interesting and discuss it.

In chapter 3 of our textbook, on page 57, the concepts associated with "evaluating information on the web" are discussed. It is noted that although the World Wide Web is a really rich source of information, "it is a rich source of misinformation as well".

In Chapter 3 the book talks about the idea of misinformation that comes from the web. I found this interesting because I tend to trust everything that comes from the web, but then again, I am too trusting. I tend to think “why would anyone want to lie to people?”

I used to use Wikipedia.com for everything, including as a source for school assignments. I really never understood why professors would say not to use it as a reliable source because I thought it always gave me great information. That is until I watched an episode of the show “30 Rock”. On this episode one of the characters on the show wanted to search information on Janis Joplin, because she was going to play her in a movie; so she searched Wikipedia because her friends told her it was a great, reliable source (she was not too bright). As a prank her friends put tons of false info on Janis and she ended up portraying the character horribly.

As the book says, the internet is a great tool to use and is ful of useful information but we tend to forget that anything can be put on the internet, and anyone has access to putting information on there, even people that are less then truthful.

Have a great weekend,
ImaginePeace

Week 6- Discussion 2

Do you agree that men and women use language differently? In what areas?

I definitely agree that men and women use language differently. Especially when it comes to communicating emotions. Society tells us that men should suppress emotions. If you don’t believe me please to refer to the death of the Howard Dean campaign in 2004 via over expression of excitement.

Men and women are taught to express emotions differently. Women are taught to express vulnerability, fear, sadness, loneliness and embarrassment, where as men are taught to use aggression to express anger, fear and hurt pride.

I also believe that men use facts more and women go a lot on intuition…something you don’t see men do to more. Women also try to justify their ideas, and beliefs based on their intuition, while men go more strictly on their facts.

Also we use language differently in the way that we speak. Women are taught to be quiet and have a pleasant voice. Men are taught to have a deep masculine voice. Sometimes both sexes use this voice to get what they want. When girls are trying to sound cute and flirty they may use the high pitch girly voice, and men may use the low, masculine voice when they are trying to show they are “the man”.

Also growing us when I would use foul language my grandmother would tell me that I couldn’t talk so foul because I’m a lady. But my boy cousin would say the same things and she wouldn’t say anything to him. When I would ask her why she wouldn’t tell him not to talk so foul she would respond to me by saying he was a boy, its in their blood. This would anger me, but I know its what she was taught growing up, its up to me to break the cycle and teach my children (boys and girls) that talking foul is okay…JUST KIDDING! I will just not give them double standards.

Until next class,
ImaginePeace

Week 6- Discussion 1

Is it possible to perceive others without, in some way, judging or categorizing them? If so, how? If not, how can we make the judgments we do make, more fair?

If there is one thing I could change about myself, it would be not to judge or categorize someone without getting to know them. I don’t mean I necessarily think stereotypical things, but I do sometimes gain preconceived notions.

Do I believe that everyone is like me? Well, I’m not sure, but I really do think its hard to perceive anyone without coming to some conclusion about them. It may be someone lives in a certain area.

When I visit my grandmother in Illinois, I always have perceptions and judge the people who live there, before meeting them. I tend to think that they are “hicks”, but when I meet them and talk to them I find out they are not hicks at all.

Is there such a thing as “fair” judgments? I believe so, because I think that’s what I do (maybe I’m just saying that to make myself feel better). If we realize we are judging in the first place I think we can make our perceptions more fair and less stereotypical.

Have a good week,
ImaginePeace

Week 4 -Discussion 3

Consider a well-known speaker, for example, the current President of the United States. What is the speaker's strongest characteristics as a speaker? Is it credibility, attractiveness, power or all three? In what ways could the speaker build ethos in these areas?

President Obama is an inspiring speaker and person. He has the power to make a majority of people (not just U.S. citizens, but also citizens of the world) do what ever he calls for. We are so lucky as a planet that he uses this skill and blessing for good and not evil.

An example of this is the day before the inauguration (MLK day). He made a call to action to all U.S. citizens asking them to use the day as a day of volunteerism. How successful was this call he made in multiple speeches? Well more then one place I called to volunteer at had to turn me away because they had TOO MANY volunteers. When I hear them say this there was only one way for me to react... "wow!" Now that is impressive.

But how does he accomplish this? I believe he uses his credibility, his attractiveness, and also his power. But what I think comes most naturally for him and peopel most recognize in him is his CREDIBILITY.

After college he could have become a corporate lawyer and made tons of money, this would definitely have helped him pay off his student loans off a lot faster. But he didn't. Instead he gave himself to the community. This (at least for me, and many people I have spoken to) gives him a lot more credibility in my eyes, he obviously cares about the well being of people, communities, and most importantly, the United States.

As for ethos...he definitely has that covered.

Until next time,
ImaginePeace

Week 4- Discussion 2

Pick one concept from the assigned reading (Chapter 9) that you found useful or interesting and discuss it.

The concept that found to be the most interesting in this chapter was the idea of the social functions of rhetoric. The reason that I found this particularly interesting is because it I finally began to understand rhetoric and how important it is in everything we do and all of our interactions within out society.

There are six factors of the social function of rhetoric. They are discovering facts, testing ideas, persuading others, shaping knowledge, building community and lastly, distributing power.

One part I found extremely interesting is the distributing power factor. When you think about it, its often the most powerful person who is speaking. Such as a president, a teacher or a group leader.
But what really is important, I believe, is what they do with the power.

Of the factors I think discovering facts is extremely crucial, but sometimes it happens without knowing it. For example, you may think you know something, but once you look into it or really listen or hear about the topic you may discover knew information. In speeches often both the speaker and as well as the audience learn new information.

Until next time,
ImaginePeace

Week 4 -Discussion 1

Have you ever been influenced by a speaker? Think of the best speaker you ever heard. What was it about that speaker that made his or her communication memorable? Think of the worst speaker you’ve ever heard. What do you remember about his or her message?

The best speaker I have ever seen/heard is President Obama. I have been lucky enough to see him speak on multiple occasions, and have to say that he a great speaker when watching him on TV, but even better when you are 5 feet in front of him.

Because I have already written a blog about his speaking technique I will choose someone else. The other speaker I will be writing about is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. I believe it may be impossible for anyone to argue against the fact that he is one of the most influential speakers ever. I have watched the I have a dream speech so many times and am so influenced b y his words that I vowed to learn that historical speech word for word (unfortunately, it's still a work in progress).

I believe the most important tactic that Dr. King took was a call to action. In his "I Have Been to the Mountain Top" speech (his final speech in Memphis before his assassination.) He gave his final call to action:

"Let us rise up tonight with a greater readiness. Let us stand with a greater determination. And let us move on in these powerful days, these days of challenge to make America what it ought to be. We have an opportunity to make America a better nation. And I want to thank God, once more, for allowing me to be here with you."


This, I believe, is what makes an influential speaker.

The worst speaker I have ever heard was my old boss. She was very monotone and would never say anything to catch the attention of others. She may be the only speakers I have ever heard that never used pathos, ethos OR logos. It was a shame because I she was a very intelligent woman, but had a hard time connecting with her audience.

Until next time,
ImaginePeace

Week 3 - Discussion 3

Pick one concept from the assigned reading that you found useful or interesting and discuss it.

One concept that stood out to me was the Psychological Model, which is a psychological process in communications that involves two or more people who exchange meaning through transmission and reception of communication stimuli. 

One sender or receive encodes an idea through translating it within the message, thinking that the second person will be able to decode that message.  Once the message is sent it travels a channel to its destination (the other person).  Once the message is decoded the received, in return, gives feedback to the sender.

But this process is not as simple as we would all like it to be.  Many things may get in the way of the message being interpreted properly.  One of these problems may be noise.  This affects the message while on its channel.  This may make the message difficult for the received to interpret, which could lead to problems.

One example (similar to the books), is in one of my classes there is a lot of wind outside the window.  Because the room is old the wind becomes extremely loud inside the classroom.  This makes it very difficult to concentrate or actually hear what my professor is saying, making the lecture hard to interpret. 

This is interesting to me, because (I’m not sure why) but I tend to misinterpret messages pretty often.  Now I can just blame it on the “noise”, but I guess only people who study communications will get my joke ☺.

Have a great weekend!
ImaginePeace

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Week 3 - Discussion 2

Consider the pragmatic perspective. Does it make sense to think of communication as patterned interaction? How is communication like a game? How is it different from a game?
 
It most definitely makes sense to look at communication as a pattern of interactions.  The book even said “…consist of a system of interlocking, interdependent behaviors that become patterned over time”.  This is the summary of the pragmatic perspective.
 
A prime example to study would be romantic relationships.  Often times it resembles a game.  For example A girl wants a bracelet from her boyfriend for her Christmas.  She may tip toe around directly telling him what she wants, instead she uses nonverbal communication, and this leads to a game.  But she tries to find ways to communicate what she wants.  And in the end he may benefit by understanding the messages she is trying to communicate and getting her the right gift. 

This will make her happy, which may in turn make him happy.  This way they both get what they want.  This may become an apparent game to the couple after awhile.  They will know the rules, regulations and what strategies they can use to get what they want or “win” the game.

Happy Blogging,
ImaginePeace :)

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Week 3 - Discussion 1

Consider the social constructionist perspective. How do we “build worlds” through communication? Think of some ideas we talk about in our culture that may not exist in other cultures. How do these concepts contribute to our happiness or success (or the lack of these) in our culture?

Culture plays a large part in our communication methods.  We define what is normal to us through our own communications, although this may not be normal to others.   Because the way we communicate may be different then others, it builds a wall which creates our own world.  This world my have its own rules, rituals, symbols, ect.  Some cultures even have their own worlds within their culture, not just one building.

Our world of communications may not translate to someone else' world of communications.  This is very prevalent in different cultures.  One example is how we interact with others.  I am Italian, and have been around loud Italian people my whole life.  In my family the only way to get heard is by being louder then the person next to you.  Thus I am a very loud, extroverted person, and this is completely accepted by my culture, including the elderly. My best friend is Japanese.  When I met her grandmother for the first time I think I may have been a little too loud for her.  She later told my friend that she was offended by how loud I was.  This surprised me because usually the elderly like me.   But it taught me a valuable lesson that now all cultures are the same as my own, I was just stuck in my own cultures world.

Another example would be comedy.  Ideas that are funny in one culture may not be funny in another.  This is because is each cultures world they have their own view of humor.  A comedian may be successful in his or her own culture and not in another. 

I believe the way to be c=most successful in your own culture is to realize that their may be different worlds within it and to be sensitive to their communication styles.  This may have to be done by breaking down walls and finding a common ground.

Until next time,
ImaginePeace

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Week 2 - Discussion 3.

Pick one concept from the assigned reading that you found useful or interesting and discuss it.

The specific concept from Chapter 1 in our textbook that I found extremely useful for me is the importance of source credibility or "the extent to which a communicator is considered believable and competent".

As a PR major, we study source credibility in almost every class. People often want to be such a credible source they sometmes cross a very fine line that leads to unethical practices.

An example is that often drug companies will write a scholarly article and pay a doctor to sign their name to it. This is unethical as public relations and medical professionals.

This brings up the argument of disclosure. How much should a company or person disclose? But they may be stepping a little bit away from credibility.

As a public relations professional I deal with credibility within my work field very often.
I also do tours of my work environmental facilities as part of my profession. If I do not seem knowledgably as a source, many of the public will not take what I am telling them about the facility seriously, and they may question my credibility. To help this I explain my job for the environmental department and let them know I am experienced with giving tours there.

When I receive questions on the tour I answer them with certainty. When I receive a question that I do not know the answer to I am honest and tell them I do not know the answer to the question, but I am always able to lead them to someone who does know. I believe this adds to my

Week 2- Discussion 2.

Week 2 Discussion 2
The Greeks believed that to be an orator, an individual had to be morally good. Comment on whether you agree or disagree. What, if any, is the connection between goodness, truth, and public communication?

I actually agree.  I think that an orator must truly be morally good.  Great orators have much influence and power.  They can either use that power for good, or they can use it for evil.  An example of an orator who used their power of persuasion for good would be Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., an example of one that used it for evil would be Adolf Hitler.

Goodness is spread through good people.  It is easy for an orator to spread messages or hate, violence and all around maliciousness.

Jim Jones is another orator who was not morally good.  He used his persuasive speaking skill to convinced families to follow him to a community where he eventually talked them into suicide.  This is why I agree with the Greeks that orators should be morally good.

Goodness, truth and public communication should be interconnected, but unfortunately they are not always interwoven.  This is very prevalent in politics.  Many politians think that they are doing what is good, although to accomplish this may not always communicate the truth to the public. 

Morality should play an important part in interconnecting goodness, truth and public communication, but unfortunately many people knowingly lie to the public which only earns them distrust

Until next time...

ImaginePeace

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Week 2- Discussion 1.

Week 2- Discussion 1.
Think of a speaker you admire. Does his or her power to persuade come from ethos, pathos, or logos? Think about your own ability to persuade others. What personal qualities do you have that make you persuasive? Does Aristotle’s classification scheme work for them, or do they fit into another category?

I am sure many people will be saying this but I really believe Barack Obama is a completely admirable speaker, and I think this helped lead to his victory in this past election.

For one thing his speeches are often filled with pathos. He finds a way to bring an emotional connection from his words to listeners. No matter if his listeners support him or his policies, it extremely hard for anyone to not feel an emotional connection to his words and speaking abilities. Using pathos helps to persuade his listeners to listen to what he is saying find a connection.

But he also uses logos. No matter how detailed, illustrated or imaginative his speeches may be, they are always filled with logic. And example of this would be his speech after he lost the New Hampshire primaries. He used his speech as a story, but often brought it back to the logic with a saying that later turned into one of his campaign slogans, "Yes we can."

Obama also uses ethos. His speeches are heard and the audience can feel the sincerity.

I like to think that I am most persuasive by using logos. I want to sound logical, but I don think that is actually always the case. I usually tend to persuade with pathos. When I try to persuade it is usually something I am very passionate about, and my passion and emotions are hard to hide, which I believe makes them contagious. I also use pathos because I try to find an emotional connection to whom I am talking to.

Introduction

I am a graduating senior majoring in public relations with a minor in communication studies.  I work in communications for environmental services.  After graduating I hope to join Americorps or the Peace corps, then go back to school for my masters.  Well, thats it for now.