Control as a Function of Communication in Society
Communication is essential for maintaining order and control in society. It allows individuals and groups to share information, coordinate their actions, and establish and enforce norms and values. Communication can be used to control people's behavior in a variety of ways, both positive and negative.
Positive Uses of Communication for Control
- Information sharing: Communication can be used to share important information with the public, such as news about weather conditions, traffic delays, or health risks. This information can help people make informed decisions and take appropriate precautions.
- Coordination: Communication can be used to coordinate the actions of individuals and groups. This is essential for carrying out complex tasks, such as running a business, managing a government, or responding to a natural disaster.
- Establishment and enforcement of norms and values: Communication can be used to establish and enforce norms and values. For example, parents communicate to their children what behaviors are acceptable and unacceptable. Schools communicate to students the importance of education and good citizenship. The media communicate to the public the values of the society.
Negative Uses of Communication for Control
- Propaganda: Communication can be used to spread propaganda, which is false or misleading information that is intended to promote a particular agenda. Propaganda can be used to control people's thoughts and behavior by convincing them to believe things that are not true.
- Censorship: Communication can be censored, which means that it is restricted or suppressed by a government or other authority. Censorship can be used to control people's access to information and to prevent them from expressing their opinions.
- Surveillance: Communication can be monitored and tracked by governments and other organizations. This surveillance can be used to control people's behavior by deterring them from engaging in activities that are considered to be undesirable.
Importance of Control in Society
Control is essential for maintaining order and stability in society. Without control, society would be chaotic and dangerous. However, it is important to strike a balance between control and freedom. Too much control can lead to oppression and tyranny, while too little control can lead to anarchy and violence.
Conclusion
Communication is a powerful tool that can be used to control people's behavior. It is important to be aware of the different ways that communication can be used for control, both positive and negative. By understanding the importance of control in society, we can better ensure that communication is used to promote the well-being of all.
References
- Berger, C. R., & Chaffee, S. H. (2009). Communication science theory and research: Foundations, methodological innovations, and future directions. Los Angeles: Sage.
- Fiske, J. (1990). Power plays, power works. London: Verso.
- McQuail, D. (2010). McQuail's mass communication theory. London: Sage.
- Schramm, W. (1955). The process and effects of mass communication. Urbana: University of Illinois Press.