Understanding the Communication Definition by Conrad & Poole

The question asks to identify the source of a specific definition of communication. The definition provided is: "Communication is the process by which people interactively create, sustain and manage meaning".

Identifying the Source of the Definition

This definition of communication is widely recognized and attributed to communication scholars Conrad & Poole. They emphasized the dynamic and ongoing nature of communication, highlighting its role in constructing and maintaining social reality and shared understanding among participants.

Analyzing the Definition

The core elements of this definition are:

• Process: Communication is not a single event but an ongoing activity.
• Interactive: It involves mutual influence and participation between individuals.
• Create, Sustain, and Manage Meaning: The primary function highlighted is the establishment and maintenance of shared interpretations and understanding.

This perspective views communication as a fundamental way people build relationships, organizations, and social structures through shared meaning.

Evaluating Other Options

Let's briefly consider why the other options are less likely to be the source of this specific definition:

• US ARMY: While the military has extensive communication protocols and doctrine, this particular theoretical definition is not typically credited to them.
• William Rice-Johnson: While a potential name in communication studies, this specific definition is strongly linked to Conrad & Poole in academic literature.
• Pranav Mistry: Known for his contributions to human-computer interaction and technology (like SixthSense), not primarily for foundational communication theory definitions.

Therefore, based on established communication scholarship, Conrad & Poole are credited with this definition focusing on the interactive creation and management of meaning.