Relevance Theory in Communication: Cognitive and Communicative Principles
Relevance Theory in Communication
Cognitive Principle of Relevance
The human mind faces an overwhelming amount of information. To manage this, our cognitive systems prioritize the most relevant inputs and process them efficiently. This is known as the Cognitive Principle of Relevance: Human cognition tends to be geared to the maximization of relevance. This principle applies to all information we encounter, whether intentional or accidental.
For example, when someone speaks, we instinctively focus
Read MoreMethodology and Method in Social Research: A Comprehensive Guide
Methodology and Method: Understanding the Fundamentals
What is Methodology?
Methodology (from Greek methodos meaning “path, way” and logos meaning “theory, reason, knowledge”) is the theory about the method or combination of methods used in research. It’s normative (value-driven) but can be descriptive (setting out methods) or comparative (analyzing different methods). Methodology also examines the conduct of research and the techniques employed.
In his book “Towards a Methodological Synthesis of Knowledge,
Read MoreHistory and Evolution of Psychology and Pathology
1. Psychological Psychology: From Philosophy to Science
Psychology as a science is relatively young, but the connection between mental events and health has always intrigued thinkers. Philosophers like Aristotle and medieval scholastics believed in a higher, immaterial being responsible for understanding and will, and an inferior, material being governing nerve functions and emotions. In the 17th century, Descartes proposed Cartesian dualism, separating mind and matter, which initially hindered psychology’
Read MoreUnderstanding Deviance, Crime, and Social Change: A Sociological Perspective
Deviance and Crime
Definitions
Deviance
Deviance is a recognized violation of cultural norms; it’s straying from the accepted standards of a society.
Crime
Crime is a specific type of deviance that violates a society’s formally enacted criminal law, established by a local, state, or federal government.
Pluralistic Societies
Pluralistic societies are diverse communities where individuals hold a variety of beliefs and tolerate each other’s perspectives, even when they disagree.
Capital Offenses
Capital offenses
Read MoreUnderstanding Political Correctness and Social Issues
Political Correctness: means using words or behavior that will not offend any group of people. Most people think it is important for everyone to be treated equally, fairly, and with dignity.
Taboo Language: refers to words and phrases that are generally considered inappropriate in certain contexts. Swearing: rude or offensive language that someone uses, especially when they are angry. Patriarchy: a social system in which males hold primary power and predominate in roles of political leadership, moral
Read MoreAttitudes, Emotions, Memory, and Learning: A Comprehensive Overview
Attitudes & Emotions
Introduction
The concept of attitude, used by social psychologists, reflects a person’s overall view about something. It is socially learned and can be changed (e.g., a person’s attitude towards politics or religion).
Components of Attitude
Attitudes have three main components:
- Cognitive: Information about something
- Affective: Positive and negative emotions
- Behavioral: Actual behavior
Attitude Formation
Attitudes can be formed through various ways:
- Direct experience: e.g., playing