COMMUNICATION ETHICS

1. The connection between communication and ethics

2. The concept of communication

Communication is defined as the multifaceted relationships between people arising from the need for joint activities. It encompasses not only the exchange of information and sharing of thoughts but also mutual understanding and the ability to empathize with others. The very words we use to talk about communication, even their components, express interconnectedness and contact. It is no coincidence that humanity has continuously developed new means of communication since the dawn of its existence—such as drums, writing, postal services, telephones, television, and computers—making it easier to connect without direct interaction.

Communication is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. Most often, we refer to verbal—spoken—communication, as the majority of information in communication is conveyed through language, which is our most familiar medium. However, communication also includes non-verbal information transfer, meaning non-verbal communication, where information is conveyed without the use of words. This includes eye contact, facial expressions, body language, physical distance between people, touch, gestures, our possessions, clothing, appearance, and auditory cues.

Regardless of its form, communication permeates every aspect of human life.

3. Communication problems

Effective communication is quite challenging due to numerous factors that can hinder it.

Language Limitations

The effectiveness of communication largely depends on language. Key elements that influence the quality of communication include:

Practical assignment. 6.1. List typical stereotypes that hinder ethical communication:

Language styles

Different contexts require different styles of communication:

Colloquial language

is informal conversations, slang, abbreviations, and regional terms that are specific to a locality (e.g., words characteristic of a place or home).

Business language

is used in professional contexts, such as news information relevant to business.

Public speaking 

refers to speeches, greetings, and discussions with political content.

Rhetorical language

 is used in theater, ceremonies, and celebrations, focusing on expressive and persuasive elements

Scientific language

 refers to the use of specific terminology related to scientific topics.

Professional language

 is a specialized language related to fields such as military, medical, and governmental contexts.

Understanding these language limitations and styles is crucial for improving communication skills and ensuring that messages are conveyed effectively across various contexts.

Speaking and listening skills

For communication to be effective, it is essential to possess both speaking and listening skills. The most important aspect is the ability to speak appropriately and listen well to the conversation partner in any situation. This requires good speaking and listening abilities. Speaking too quickly or too slowly will not yield good results. Similarly, an individual who does not make an effort or lacks the skill to listen to their conversation partner will hinder effective communication.

Personality and perception

The individual plays a very important role in the communication process. Personality encompasses behavior, character, and a range of traits that are unique to each person. Every person is an individual because there are no two identical people in the world. Sometimes, during conversations, speakers may adopt each other's ideas, which can pose a significant problem, resulting in a loss of effectiveness in communication.

Overload

At times, a person's mind and memory can become overloaded with unnecessary information. This only complicates communication. Why burden oneself with irrelevant information? It is crucial to be able to filter out the most necessary, important, and useful information. By doing so, individuals can communicate more effectively and ensure that their messages are clear and comprehensible.

4. Negative emotions

Barriers of communication related to negative emotions

Communication can often be hindered by various emotional barriers that arise from negative feelings. Understanding these barriers can help individuals navigate interpersonal relationships more effectively. Here are some key barriers related to negative emotions:

Practical assignment 6.2.  Review the practical tips for good communication ethics below a d think about your own communication situations. Would these tips help you communicate more ethically? Why?

Addressing Emotional Barriers

To overcome these barriers, individuals can:

By addressing these emotional barriers, individuals can improve their communication, strengthen their relationships, and enhance their overall emotional well-being.