Exploring the Differences Between Language and Communication
What Aspects Distinguish Language from Communication?
Many people confuse the terms 'communication' and 'language' because they often use them interchangeably. However, these terms represent different aspects of human interaction. Language is primarily a means for conveying information and conveying ideas. Communication, on the other hand, is the end goal of exchanging this information and ensuring understanding.
It's common for individuals to believe that any form of talking or writing is sufficient for achieving effective communication. They assume that the recipient of the message will always understand the intent and context. However, misunderstandings and misinterpretations can occur, leading to ineffective communication. To ensure that the end goal of communication is achieved, confirmation and verification are essential.
In military communication, this is done by simply requesting confirmation. For example, after giving instructions to a subordinate, an officer typically stops to ask 'do you copy', meaning 'do you clearly understand your instructions'. This process helps ensure that the message has been properly received and understood.
Non-Linguistic Communication: A Case Study
Non-linguistic communication can be just as effective, if not more so, in certain situations. An intriguing example of non-linguistic communication involves a simple act of offering food to birds near a park bench. By eating some food and occasionally dropping crumbs, you can establish a routine with the birds without using any words.
Take a small amount of food, such as nuts or granola, and place it on a bench near a sidewalk. As you eat, keep an eye out for any birds. If a bird approaches, 'accidentally' drop a tiny bit of food that falls close to the bird. Make it look like you are brushing it off energetically to make it fall beyond your reach. Over time, this routine will communicate to the birds that you are willing to feed them. Soon, they will be waiting for you each day at the designated time.
Understanding non-linguistic communication is crucial because it can be very effective in establishing trust and understanding. Unlike the sign that warns of the legal consequences of feeding wildlife, which is a form of primary linguistic communication, the actions of dropping a bit of food and the birds' responses to it are forms of non-linguistic communication. They convey mutual understanding and trust without words.
While the sign and the police ticket serve as a form of verbal communication, the actual interaction between you and the birds is an example of non-linguistic communication. Your actions let the birds know that you are willing to share, and they let you know that they trust you. The local rat population might also understand this form of communication, leading to a potential nuisance.
The Consequences of Miscommunication
Many places have made it a crime to feed wildlife in public parks due to the potential sanitation and rodent problems. However, the birds' natural curiosity and observant nature often lead them to recognize the promise of food before the law does. A simple act like dropping a piece of food can communicate much more effectively than a sign or a legal warning.
A police officer or an animal control officer who happens to walk by your park bench when the birds expect your food might communicate mistrust through their presence and actions. Their non-verbal communication can be a significant factor in breaking the routine you have established with the birds.
Understanding the distinction between language and communication can help improve the effectiveness of your interactions. Whether you are seeking to establish trust with birds or structured instructions with military peers, recognizing the role of language and non-linguistic communication can significantly enhance your ability to achieve the desired outcomes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while language is a powerful tool for communication, it is not the only form of communication. Non-linguistic communication, such as the act of feeding birds, can be just as effective in building trust and understanding. Recognizing and utilizing these forms of communication can help you achieve your goals more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between language and communication?
Language is the means by which we convey information and ideas, while communication is the process of exchanging information with the intent of mutual understanding. Language is a subset of communication that includes verbal and written forms, while non-linguistic communication encompasses actions, gestures, and other non-verbal means.
How can non-linguistic communication be more effective than linguistic communication?
Non-linguistic communication can be more effective because it often relies on trust and direct interaction. In situations where clarity is crucial, or when there is no shared language, non-verbal signals and actions can be more intuitive and less open to misinterpretation. This is evident in the example of feeding birds, where the act of dropping food establishes a routine and mutual trust without the need for spoken words.
Can language be considered a form of non-linguistic communication?
No, language is a specific form of verbal and written communication. Non-linguistic communication includes actions, gestures, and other forms of interaction that do not involve spoken or written language. While language can be used to describe or explain non-verbal communication, it is not a form of non-linguistic communication itself.