History of Communication

Definition of “Communication” The roots of the word ” communication” (communis, or common) accurately portray its purpose. In communication the speaker tries to express his thoughts while the listener has to absorb them . As a result, the speaker is obligated to create a clear picture to stimulate the listener and “make their thoughts common” . Nowadays, "communication” is defined as a process of imparting or exchanging information by speaking, writing, using gestures or some other medium.

What is needed to communicate with others? Ability to listen Appropriate verbal speech Appropriate non-verbal speech Involvement in conversation

Early Communications Before the human beings created languages and alphabets, they communicated with both sound and body language. Arguably, the earliest humans related feelings and stories through sounds as well as body and hand gestures. Some of these stories became illustrated.

Early Communications As mankind developed the communication symbols appeared : Egyptian hieroglyphics Wooden totem poles Religious symbols like the Star of David and the Christian cross.

Development of Language Even though scholars were creating ways to write languages, many people were unable to obtain a formal education and could not read these developing alphabets; so early commercial signage developed, like the barber pole and other symbols indicating the type of service a merchant provided.

Different Forms of Communication Actually, symbols are characteristic for trademarks.

Insignia and Flags Other identifying forms of communication from the past and present include insignia which were and still are used by military forces. These forces often routinely carried flags representing their countries.

Morse Code This form of communication was used in the past and is still used today. Beginning in 1836, the American artist Samuel F. B. Morse, the American physicist Joseph Henry, and Alfred Vail developed an electrical telegraph system.

Road Signs Some forms of communication are units of measure. They were printed on road signs to communicate distances and acceptable miles per hour for automobile drivers.

Courier and Post The oldest information about the existing courier system comes from Egypt 2400 B.C. The post travelled in different ways among others: pigeon racing, couriers on horses, balloons or ships.

Physically Challenged Communication Person who is unable to read, write, see or hear may be able to learn and use sign language and other forms of specially adapted communication technology.

Communication Today Mobile phone (but beginning in 1848) TV (beginning in 1927) Internet (beginning in 1969)

Summary Sometimes however, simply talking face-to-face is truly the most effective type of communication.