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Date Posted: 14:32:59 08/24/02 Sat
Author: AnDray Strickland
Subject: Re: Topic 3--According to McCroskey (p. 34), Communication is simply a tool---describe...
In reply to: Ken Harley 's message, "Topic 3--According to McCroskey (p. 34), Communication is simply a tool---describe..." on 15:41:20 08/21/02 Wed

>If communication is simply a tool, according to
>McCroskey, how do we feel when the tool is used to
>cause ill? What happens when we rhetorically
>communicate to cheat or hurt or take from someone
>else? Can we, through an understanding of
>communication, begin to craft our messages to others
>for conflict resolution instead of creating more
>conflict?


I think the skilled communicator is a person who has learned to master and manipulate words and ideas to achieve gain whether positive or negative.

I know that I've fallen victim to the smooth words of a salesperson or a relative asking for money, but many times I allowed myself to get caught up in the wonderful words without taking a step back and asking myself was this really something I needed, or was the other person sincere?

It hurts to be a victim of any circumstance, but it's important to learn from those lessons and to try not to fall as easy prey again.

When people use rhetorical communication to hurt others, it is usually for some ill-gotten gain. I think the most vile nature of this communication is having a knowledge that you are going to deceive others, and to actually go through with those plans.

Rhetorical communication used negatively will breed victims. Someone will get hurt. If a person knows that they can easily manipulate others to do what they want, they will take advantage of others with less skills, knowledge, or know-how.

Rhetorical communication used positively can move mountains. When that channel of communication is used to lift hope, create awareness, renew positive thinking, etc. etc., we all benefit.

Messages that alliviate fears and create a sense of direction are better received. Messages that are well thought out and planned will usually have a better reception than a haphazard message.

I believe it is very possibe for messages to be turned from negative conflict inflicting devices to a more positive conflict resolution tool, and it starts with putting yourself in the other persons shoes.

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  • Re: Topic 3--According to McCroskey (p. 34), Communication is simply a tool---describe... -- Kathy Oskison, 12:59:54 08/25/02 Sun
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