Exploring Symbolic Convergence Theory: Understanding Group Communication and Shared Meanings

Part of symbolic convergenceDramatis personae (characters) – the actors and players who give life to the rhetorical visionPlotline – provides the action of the rhetorical visionScene – details the location of the rhetorical visionSanctioning agent – legitimizes the rhetorical visionMaster analogue – the reflection of a deeper structure within the rhetorical vision

In symbolic convergence theory, these terms are used to understand how group communication forms and develops

In symbolic convergence theory, these terms are used to understand how group communication forms and develops. Here is a detailed explanation of each term:

1. Dramatis personae (characters): In symbolic convergence theory, dramatis personae refers to the actors and players who give life to the rhetorical vision. These characters represent real individuals or groups who contribute to the formation of shared meanings and symbols in a group or society. They are crucial in creating a collective identity and influencing the development of group communication.

2. Plotline: The plotline is the narrative or storyline that provides the action of the rhetorical vision. It outlines the sequence of events, actions, and interactions that occur within a group or society. The plotline helps in understanding how group communication unfolds, how narratives are created, and how individuals contribute to the shared reality.

3. Scene: In symbolic convergence theory, the scene represents the location or context of the rhetorical vision. It refers to the physical or virtual space where communication occurs and where individuals participate in group activities. Scenes can include actual physical places like meeting rooms or virtual spaces like online forums. Understanding the scene is important as it influences the dynamics and outcomes of group communication.

4. Sanctioning agent: The sanctioning agent is the entity or authority that legitimizes the rhetorical vision. It can be an individual, a group, or an institution that holds power and influence within the group or society. The sanctioning agent provides approval or endorsement to the shared meanings and symbols created by the dramatis personae. This agent plays a crucial role in shaping the collective reality and reinforcing the group’s values and beliefs.

5. Master analogue: The master analogue refers to a reflection of a deeper structure within the rhetorical vision. It represents a broader pattern or archetype that influences the creation and understanding of shared meanings. This concept suggests that there are underlying structures and themes that shape the communication and shared reality within a group. Identifying the master analogue helps in understanding the deeper motivations and influences in group communication processes.

Overall, symbolic convergence theory provides a framework to understand group communication dynamics and the formation of shared meanings. By analyzing the dramatis personae, plotline, scene, sanctioning agent, and master analogue, researchers and practitioners can gain insights into the complex processes involved in communication and group identity formation.

More Answers: