Introduction to Communication - History Overview

Communication is a social science that focuses on how humans communicate across cultures and societies. It explores the intricate and multifaceted ways people interact and exchange messages.

Sociologists are interested in how communication shapes and is shaped by social groups, structures, and relationships. They analyze social patterns and processes related to communication.

Psychologists, in a communication context, investigate how communication impacts and is influenced by human thinking, emotions, and personality. They explore the psychological aspects of communication.

Media studies scholars analyze the creation, distribution, and consumption of media messages. They examine the influence of media on society and culture.

Anthropologists delve into human cultures and societies, exploring how communication plays a vital role in preserving and transmitting knowledge, values, and traditions.

Political scientists study the use of communication in political processes and institutions. They analyze how communication shapes public opinion, policy, and campaigns.

Harold Lasswell's model of communication identifies five key elements: 1. Who (communicator), 2. Says what (message), 3. To whom (audience), 4. Through what channel (medium), 5. With what effect (impact).

Wilbur Schramm played a significant role in establishing communication studies as a distinct academic discipline. He contributed foundational research on mass communication's processes and effects.

Walter Lippmann emphasized the role of mass media in shaping public opinion and constructing shared social realities. He believed media could influence how we perceive the world.

John Dewey highlighted the crucial role of communication in fostering education and social progress. He believed communication is essential for democratic participation and societal advancement.

Carl Hovland conducted pioneering research on the impact of mass media on public opinion. His work laid the groundwork for the field of persuasion research.

The rise of digital media, such as social media and online news, has created numerous opportunities for communication professionals. They are needed to create and distribute online content, manage social media accounts, and build online communities.

The creative economy, which includes sectors like advertising, public relations, and media production, is growing rapidly in Malaysia. This creates job opportunities for communication professionals in these areas.

Multinational corporations are expanding their operations in Malaysia, leading to a demand for communication professionals to help them communicate with their customers, employees, and stakeholders.

The Malaysian government's focus on digital transformation is creating opportunities for communication professionals to help organizations transition to the digital age.

The study of communication is rooted in classical times, with figures like Plato and Aristotle developing theories of rhetoric and persuasion.

During the medieval period, communication study was primarily used in religious and legal contexts.

The Renaissance saw a renewed interest in rhetoric and communication, expanding its application beyond religious and legal contexts.

During the Enlightenment period, communication studies developed theories and models of communication. This led to systematic research into communication processes.

The 19th century marked the emergence of communication studies as a distinct academic discipline.

The 20th century witnessed a rapid expansion in the field of communication studies due to the emergence of new communication technologies.

The rise of new communication technologies, such as the telephone, radio, and film, significantly influenced the development of communication studies.

The development of social sciences fields, such as psychology, sociology, and political science, contributed to the growth of communication studies.

The increasing importance of communication in public life and business has spurred the development of communication studies.

Berlo's model of communication emphasizes the sender, message, channel, receiver, and noise. It highlights the importance of understanding the dynamics of communication between individuals.

The development of communication studies in Malaysia has been driven by factors such as the rise of digital media, the growth of the creative economy, the expansion of multinational corporations, and the government's focus on digital transformation.