CMNS 262 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: Thomas Kuhn, Communication Theory, Paradigm Shift
2 Oct 2016
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Document Summary
A theory of knowledge in sociology and communication theory that examines the development of jointly constructed understandings of the world that forms the basis for shared assumption about reality. Theory centers on the notions that human beings rationalize their experience by creating models of the social world and share and reify these models through language. Sociologist talk about reality as a social construction. Truth, knowledge, are discovered made known, reinforced and changed by members of society. As social beings we respond to our interpretations and definitions of situations thereby shaping reality. How we distinguish fact from fantasy are tied to interpersonal interactions, culture, economics, But not all of us possess the same ability to define reality. Individuals and groups in positions of power have the ability to control information, define values, create myths, manipulate events and influence what others take for granted. The mass media are especially influential in shaping perceptions of reality.
