PROF RACHMAT KRIYANTONO (Prof RK): ONTOLOGI ILMU KOMUNIKASI DALAM FILSAFAT ILMU KOMUNIKASI

Summary

This lecture discusses the ontological study of communication science, focusing on the essence and nature of communication. The professor explains that ontology in communication addresses the question, 'What is communication?' and its core elements, such as message production, process, and symbol systems. The lecture also covers how communication is studied from philosophical perspectives, including ontology, epistemology, and axiology. Additionally, the professor distinguishes between transmission and transactional views of communication, linking them to broader paradigms in communication theory. The lecture concludes by highlighting key ontological issues in understanding human interaction and social communication.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ontology is a branch of philosophy that deals with the nature of being or existence, particularly in the context of communication.
• 📚 The study of communication ontology asks the core question: 'What is communication?' This inquiry aims to understand the essence of communication.
• 💬 Communication involves the production, process, and influence of symbols and signs in human life. Messages are central to communication as they represent organized symbols meant to convey meaning.
• 📖 The perspective of communication as either a transmission process (linear) or a transactional process (interactive) shapes the ontological view of communication.
• 🔍 In epistemology, communication can be studied through methods that either treat respondents as passive recipients (in a transmission model) or as active participants (in a transactional model).
• 🧩 Ontology is vital because it affects how we approach the study of communication, influencing both epistemological (how we gather knowledge) and axiological (the purpose or value) inquiries.
• 🌐 Communication, as a social interaction, is analyzed not only for its linear aspects but also for its dynamic, reciprocal, and transactional nature in human relationships.
• 🤔 The debate between subjective and objective views in communication studies revolves around whether humans act with free will (subjective view) or are influenced by external factors (objective view).
• ⏳ Human behavior is seen as either dynamic and changing (subjective) or static and predictable (objective), with implications for understanding communication in different contexts.
• 🌍 The ontological study of communication considers whether communication behavior is universal and governed by immutable laws or contextual and shaped by specific social and cultural circumstances.

Q & A

What is ontology in the context of communication studies?

Ontology is a branch of philosophy that deals with the nature of being or existence. In communication studies, it refers to the fundamental essence or nature of communication itself, asking 'What is communication?' and exploring its core characteristics.

What does the ontology of communication seek to answer?

The ontology of communication seeks to answer the question, 'What is communication?' It focuses on the essence or nature of communication, including its processes, symbols, and the impact of these symbols on human interaction.

What are the key objects of study in communication ontology?

The key objects of study in communication ontology are the processes, production, and influence of systems of signs and symbols, which create meaning within human interaction. It explores how messages, as structured sets of symbols, influence communication.

What is the difference between viewing communication as transmission and as transactional?

Viewing communication as transmission sees it as a linear process where messages are sent and received, often focusing on cause and effect. Viewing it as transactional, however, emphasizes the relational aspect, where individuals influence each other through continuous interaction.

How does the ontological view affect epistemology in communication studies?

The ontological view of communication (e.g., transmission or transaction) influences epistemology, which is concerned with how we acquire knowledge about communication phenomena. For example, if communication is seen as transmission, researchers might focus on cause-effect relationships. If viewed as transactional, the focus may be on how meaning is co-constructed between participants.

What is epistemology in the context of communication studies?

Epistemology in communication studies refers to the study of how we acquire knowledge about communication. It investigates the methods and processes used to understand communication phenomena, such as how people interpret and make sense of messages.

What is axiology in communication philosophy?

Axiology in communication philosophy deals with the value or purpose of studying communication. It asks questions such as 'What is the benefit or impact of communication?' and evaluates the relevance of communication in social contexts.

How does the concept of free will versus determinism relate to communication ontology?

In communication ontology, free will suggests that individuals actively construct and control their communication and actions. In contrast, determinism argues that behavior is influenced by external factors like the environment, meaning communication outcomes are shaped by pre-existing conditions.

What role does the linear model of communication play in communication ontology?

The linear model of communication was one of the early dominant views in communication ontology, which sees communication as a one-way process of transmitting information from sender to receiver. This model is largely influenced by natural science and was prominent until the mid-20th century.

How does human interaction differ in objective versus subjective ontological views of communication?

In objective ontological views, human interaction is seen as predictable, consistent, and governed by universal laws. In subjective ontological views, human interaction is dynamic, context-dependent, and influenced by individual interpretations and perceptions, making communication a co-constructed reality.