When Communication Became a Discipline

Communication as a discipline emerged between 1964 and 1982, with scholars changing the names of societies and journals, and revising academic curricula to focus on communication processes and effects. Five strands of scholarship proved central to this transformation, including communication as the formation and change of individual and public opinion, language use, information transmission, relationship development, and culture definition, interpretation, and criticism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 05 November 2021
Publisher: Lexington Books

Between 1964 and 1982, a significant shift occurred within the realm of speech and journalism academia, as these professors embraced the concept of communication as the focal point of their scholarly endeavors. This transformative shift was marked by a series of actions, including renaming scholarly societies and journals, revising academic curricula to prioritize communication processes and effects, and developing five distinct strands of scholarship that became central to this transformation. These strands encompassed communication as the formation and alteration of individual and public opinion, language use as a means of communication, information transmission as a crucial aspect, communication as a catalyst for developing relationships, and communication as the interpreter, critic, and definer of culture.

While communication may not traditionally fall within the purview of traditional academic disciplines, the scholars involved in this period not only reshaped their own perspectives but also successfully persuaded their university colleagues to recognize and embrace the disciplinary definitions associated with communication. This remarkable transformation was driven by a profound sense of scholarly creativity and a commitment to advancing the field of communication studies.

The evidence presented in When Communication Became a Discipline serves as a testament to the profound impact of this shift. It showcases the innovative thinking and intellectual contributions of these scholars, who challenged the boundaries of traditional academic disciplines and paved the way for a more comprehensive understanding of communication. Their work not only enriched the field of communication but also had a lasting influence on the broader academic community.

In conclusion, the transformation of communication from a peripheral concern to a central discipline within speech and journalism academia between 1964 and 1982 is a testament to the power of scholarly creativity and the ability of dedicated individuals to shape the course of academic discourse. This period marked a significant milestone in the development of communication studies, and its legacy continues to inspire and influence researchers and scholars today.

Weight: 544g
Dimension: 227 x 160 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781498572156