The Social Psychology of Communication – Tamotsu Shibutani – 1958
The Social Psychology of Communication
Tamotsu Shibutani’s The Social Psychology of Communication, first published in 1958, examines how communication shapes our understanding of the world and our place within it. The work moves beyond a simple transmission model of communication – sender, message, receiver – to explore the dynamic, interpretive processes through which meaning is created and negotiated in social interaction. Shibutani argues that meaning isn’t inherent in objects or events, but emerges from the definitions people apply to them, definitions that are constantly tested and refined through communication with others.
Historical / Cultural Context
This book arose within the broader sociological and psychological currents of the mid-20th century, a period marked by increasing interest in symbolic interactionism. This perspective, influenced by thinkers like George Herbert Mead and Charles Cooley, emphasizes the role of symbols and social interaction in the development of the self and society. Shibutani’s work reflects a shift away from structuralist approaches that focused on macro-level social forces, towards a more nuanced understanding of how individual interactions build and maintain social order. The post-war era also saw a growing awareness of the power of mass communication and its potential for both social cohesion and manipulation, influencing Shibutani’s attention to the social construction of reality.
Who This Book Is For
The Social Psychology of Communication is primarily geared towards students and scholars in sociology, communication studies, and psychology. However, its accessible style and insightful observations make it valuable for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of human interaction and the role of communication in shaping our perceptions. The concepts explored—such as the “looking-glass self” and the construction of “generalized others”—provide a foundational understanding of social behavior. Its interdisciplinary approach makes it useful for those studying folklore, cultural history, or mythology as well, since the formation of shared beliefs is a central theme.
Further Reading
- George Herbert Mead, Mind, Self, and Society (1934): A foundational text in symbolic interactionism, providing the theoretical basis for much of Shibutani’s work.
- Erving Goffman, The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life (1959): Explores the dramaturgical aspects of social interaction, complementing Shibutani’s focus on meaning negotiation.
- Kenneth Burke, A Rhetoric of Motives (1950): Examines the role of language and rhetoric in shaping human action and belief.
Disclaimer.
Oraclepedia is an independent educational and cultural project. The material presented explores myths, belief systems, symbolic traditions, and aspects of human perception from historical, cultural, and psychological perspectives.
Content is provided for informational and reflective purposes only and does not promote specific beliefs, spiritual practices, or ideological positions. Interpretations presented reflect scholarly, cultural, or symbolic analysis rather than factual claims about the natural world.