What is Communication?

George Bernard Shaw
The problem with communication is the illusion that it has been accomplished.” George Bernard Shaw, Irish author and playwright Source: Published on LIFEG Bernard Shaw 2, marked as public domain, more details on Wikimedia Commons

When reading George Bernard Shaw’s words above, most people can easily identify with this sentiment. Undoubtedly, many individuals have experienced the pains and frustration inherent with instances of miscommunication, which is likely the reason people so easily recognize the humor inherent in his statement.

In fact, it may prove easier to identify and define elements of miscommunication than to identify and define the process of communication. Communicators can face many challenges, like using the wrong word for the wrong audience, failing to use the appropriate tone for the intended message, or leaving out pertinent information. Sadly, individuals may find it easier to miscommunicate than to simply get their message across to their intended audience correctly and efficiently the first time.

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Messages that Matter: Public Speaking in the Information Age - Third Edition Copyright © 2023 by North Idaho College is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.

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