Abstract
The paper critically examines the Western-centric bias in current communication theories. It highlights the dominance of Western perspectives in the development of these theories and argues that this bias fails to capture the rich diversity and unique communication styles of Eastern cultures, leading to a significant gap in global communication understanding. In its first section, the paper explores the historical evolution of Western communication theories, detailing their key characteristics and inherent limitations. It points out how these theories, shaped by Western cultural norms and values, are inadequate for addressing the distinct societal structures and communication practices prevalent in Eastern societies. The paper then shifts focus to Eastern cultures, elaborating on their diverse values, norms, and communication styles and highlighting the vast regional differences within these cultures. A critical analysis is presented, showcasing the challenges and misunderstandings that emerge when applying Western-centric theories to Eastern contexts. The paper uses case studies to demonstrate the ineffectiveness of these theories in interpreting or guiding communication in Eastern settings. The core of the paper proposes a more inclusive approach to communication theories, advocating for the integration of Eastern perspectives and a global viewpoint that respects cultural differences. It emphasizes interdisciplinary research and cross-cultural studies as essential for developing a comprehensive understanding of communication. Concluding, the paper underscores the need for a paradigm shift in communication studies. It calls on scholars and practitioners to recognize and embrace cultural diversity, urging for a progression towards theories that represent the global community.
Presenters
Dious JosephGraduate Teaching Associate, Scrips College of Communication, Ohio University, Ohio, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Communications and Linguistic Studies
KEYWORDS
COMMUNICATION, THEORIES
