Common questions about Communication

Short answers, pulled from the story.

What did Dean Barnlund propose about communication in 1970?

Dean Barnlund proposed in 1970 that communication is not merely the transmission of messages but the very production of meaning itself. His transactional model argued that meaning does not exist independently of the interaction but is forged through the continuous, simultaneous exchange of cues.

How do maple trees communicate when attacked by herbivores?

Maple trees communicate when attacked by herbivores by releasing volatile organic compounds into the air to create a chemical alarm system. This process involves the emission of a cue by a sender, the perception of that cue by a receiver, and the receiver's subsequent response using biochemical responses to environmental stimuli.

What is the waggle dance used for by worker bees?

The waggle dance is used by worker bees to communicate the location of flowers to their colony members. This visual communication conveys direction, distance, and the quality of the nectar source through the rhythmic movement of the bee's body.

When did the Sumerians develop the first complex writing system?

The Sumerians developed the first complex writing system known as cuneiform around 3500 BCE. This invention marked a pivotal turning point in human history by enabling the preservation of knowledge beyond the limits of human memory.

How did the invention of the internet alter human communication?

The invention of the internet in the late 20th century fundamentally altered the landscape of human communication by creating a global network for the instantaneous exchange of information. This digital revolution enabled the creation of websites, email, social media, and video conferences that connect individuals and communities around the world.