Communication Ethics Literacy: Dialogue and Difference

by Ronald C. Arnett, Janie Harden Fritz, Leeanne M. Bell

This comprehensive and engaging treatment of communication ethics combines student application and theoretical engagement. Communication Ethics Literacy: Dialogue and Difference reviews classic communication ethics approaches and extends the conversation about dialogue and difference in public and private life. Introducing communication ethics as a pragmatic survival skill in a world of difference, the authors offer a learning model that frames communication ethics as arising from a set of goods found within particular narratives, traditions, or virtue structures that guide human life.

296 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2008

About the author

Ronald C. Arnett is Chair and Professor of the Affiliated Departments of Communication and English at Duquesne University. He is the author of three books: Dwell in Peace: Applying Nonviolence to Everyday Relationships; Communication and Community: Implications of Martin Buber's Dialogue, for which he received the 1988 Book Award by the Religious Speech Association; and Dialogic Education: Conversations About Ideas and Between People. He is also the coeditor of The Further Reach of Dialogue and Community Ethics in an Age of Diversity.

Reviews

[Tyler · Rating 1 out of 5]

One of the most dull and tedious books I've ever been required to read. Although a relatively short book, it is extremely dense reading and so thick with academic jargon that it is nearly incomprehensible in places without being familiar with all of the studies they are citing. The author is very poor at teaching abstract ideas in a way that is plain and easy to understand. Also, for the number of words written there is very little said. It repeats the same few theses over and over and over again:

1. We live in a time where people disagreeing about what constitutes right and wrong is normal.
2. Therefore, our communication with others must adapt to this norm.
3. Adapting to this norm requires such things as:
a) a willingness to listen to and dialogue with others without forcing it.
b) demonstrating respect and seeking to understand other's point of view.
c) clearly articulating your own point of view
d) disagreeing agreeably and be willing to understand and accept when others disagree with you
e) constant effort to learn about and engage with other people and their cultures and point of view
f) don't assume your viewpoint is either the only viewpoint or always the right or best viewpoint
Etc.

By developing such habits you are more likely to communicate effectively in these times which are so much defined by difference.

I sincerely hope you never read this book. Take my summary for what it is worth and don't waste your time.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It is dense with actionable information on managing difference. One of my favorites from my MA program.