Exploring Communication Theory

Exploring Communication Theory

Continuing its engaging and readable approach, this second edition presents an overview of the major theories within the discipline of communication studies inclusive of the three major paradigms of social scientific, interpretive, and critical. Each member of the author team writes from his or her area of expertise, giving readers further insight into how the theory is applied to research within communication studies. With extensive pedagogical features, the text underscores key concepts and links them to students’ own communication studies scholarship and everyday lives. Key updates for this edition include updated examples and discussions around theories to give students a deeper understanding; explorations of Black Lives Matter and intersectionality; and new pedagogical features in line with Bloom’s taxonomy. This book is ideal as a core text for undergraduate courses in communication theory. Online resources also accompany the text: an instructor manual, test bank, lecture slides, and author introduction videos. Please visit www.routledge.com/9781032015194 to access the materials.

Exploring Communication Theory

Each of us wonders about something. We might wish we understood our romantic partners better. Maybe we struggle to understand people from other cultures, or we can't figure out why different religious or political groups do what they do. Even though we all communicate on a daily basis, we frequently wonder about the behavior of others. Good theories help us answer a broad range of questions. Why do some messages persuade us better than others? Why do people believe what they hear on television or read online? Why do some marriages succeed and others fail? Communication theory has the answers. This book selects key theories about a range of communication topics and explains each one in a clear and accessible manner. Students are encouraged to understand, question, and evaluate theories to make better sense of their social worlds.

Exploring Communication Theory and Research