Asian Communication Modes

Abstract

Communication in its simplest form refers to the ongoing process of sharing and understanding meaning ( Communication: Definitions and Concepts). Much of a problematic intercultural communication stems from different ways that message is composed, transmitted, and interpreted. Human beings depend on combinations of a variety of philosophical, social psychological and institutional standards or criteria of conduct to arrive at reasonable, appropriate, and meaningful modes of communication. Asia is very heterogeneous. Each Asian culture has its unique philosophical traditions, ethics, and morals for appropriate social behaviors and conducts, Confucianism, however, is one of the most prevalent practices in Asian cultures. Although communication is unique within each Asian culture, systematic similarities in communication (e.g., indirect, implicit, polite and formal communication) have been observed across the Asian cultures (Gao, Ting-Toomey, & Gudykunst 1996). Human communication modes (Communicator Style) can be understood from multiple perspectives. The purpose of this article is to explore this very phenomenon by examining the current literature from Asian perspectives ( Communication as an Academic Field: East Asia). Specifically, this entry discusses certain Asian communication modes, their underlying core concepts, and the overarching philosophical roots among Asian cultures.