Evolution of Human Communication: A Complex Journey - Essay Sample

Introduction

The topic of the evolution of language is a complex one that involves a gradual change in human communication over time. The process is analogous to the biological evolution, although it does not necessarily entail the same mechanism. It involves the development of different methods of communication. Indeed, since the time of creation, humans have been communicating to one another, albeit the techniques have been varying a lot through the different timeline (Alberts, Nakayama & Martin, 2010). From the most primitive methods, the way people communicate has drastically changed due to technological advances. For centuries, scholars have endeavoured to unravel the nature of human language. However, although there still exists gaps in the knowledge available concerning the topic of the evolution of human language, this essay presents a candid discussion based on information drawn from the field of sociology.

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Methods of Communication and How Technology has Impacted Them

Historically, communication between two or more people took place in the same place. This could either be at the same time or different instances. To expound on this, people could either communicate directly or indirectly. Direct communication involved face-to-face encounter while the latter entailed etching of messages on the stone or cave wall for those behind to read (Alberts, Nakayama & Martin, 2010). Remote communication involved either the use of fire (smoke signals), drums beats, or even touches. Notably, these methods were used to communicate special event; for instance, in case there was an attack by the enemies. Besides, during the olden days, runners were also used to relay the message to someone who was based in a different location far away (Alberts, Nakayama & Martin, 2010). Such people were considered to possess the talent of running marathon distances. In the late generations, people also started writing letters using ink and quill and send them to their intended recipient. However, the delivery would take days, weeks, or even longer. This method is still in practice today, although it had evolved a lot, mainly due to the introduction of postal services.

Over time, inventors started developing devices that made communication easier. The first communication electronic devices to be invented were typewriters, Morse code, and printing press machine. Essentially, they allowed the mass production of printed media. In particular, the typewriters made it easy to write messages in typed print unlike in there before when people used to write letters using their hand (Alberts, Nakayama & Martin, 2010). Indeed, the latter method was not only laborious, but also the typed messages were difficult to read. In the mid-1800s, Alexander Graham Bell conceptualized the idea of developing a telephone (Alberts, Nakayama & Martin, 2010).

Notably, telephones have undergone significant technological advances, and it remains to be one of the most popularly used methods of communication. Over and above, humans have progressed from such expensive technological communication devices that were only available to a finite population, to cellular phones that are more portable, battery interoperable, and that can be used in almost all corners of the world (Berwick & Chomsky, 2016). Doubled with telephone technology and advances in computer technology, today, humans can communicate more effectively. However, although computers found many uses in the business realm, they were bulky and slow in operation.

Markedly, over the last two decades, computers have evolved to being slim and portable machines that have become an integral facet of people's lives. Moreover, the development of the internet in the late 1900s has made computers become even a more critical tool for communication (Berwick & Chomsky, 2016). The development of databases has made it possible to store and access crucial data remotely. More importantly, the invention of smartphones has made access to the internet even more comfortable with the push of a button. Notably, mobile apps such as Skype have made it possible to have face-to-face calls. Unlike in the past, where researchers were necessitated to conduct their research in the library, today, Google allows humans to have immediate access to critical research information (Grant & Meadows, 2016). Indeed, technological advances have enhanced the way people communicate, not mentioning, in a more convenient and user-friendly way.

Factors that Impact Access to Communication in Society

Myriads of factors impact the way information is communicated in contemporary society, including the social-economic status, age, and ethnic group.

Firstly, the social-economic status of society members is one of the major factors that impact the way information is communicated. The lower class, for instance, are less likely to leverage computers and smartphones in their communication. Thus, they mostly depend on face-to-face communication and feature phones in their communication. This is because they can hardly raise the amount required to purchase these communication gadgets. In sharp contrast, the elite class (comprising of the educated, employed and business people) are financially capable of purchasing these gadgets. Moreover, this category of citizens has the technical know-how of operating these devices not underscoring the fact that the majority of them grow up in an environment that familiarizes them with these devices. Unarguably, computers require individuals to be proficient, a skill that many lower class people lack.

Age is yet another critical factor that impacts the way people communicate in society. Undoubtedly, the younger generation is more exposed to modern communication technologies. This is because they are not only taught how to operate computers in school but also they are more exposed due to peer influence. On the other hand, the majority of older people lack the skills of operating devices such as smartphones and computers.

Finally, the marginalized ethnic group also finds it difficult to access information since they do not only lack capital to purchase these devices, but also they lack the expertise to operate the gadgets. The vice-versa also holds.

How the Online Environments and Technological Growth Has Impacted the Way the Society Communicates On both Personal and Professional Levels

Technological growth and online environments have tremendously impacted the way society communicates. At the personal level, for instance, the invention of the telephone made it possible for people to communicate with others remotely. Cellular mobile phones even made remote communication more convenient since they are portable and cheaper. Most notably, social media websites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have enhanced the way people interact. Today, through leveraging the social networking sites, one can connect to thousands of people. This makes it easy to share their daily life experiences, even when located many miles apart. What is more, people can communicate face-to-face via the help of applications such as Skype and Whatsapp. Moreover, communication at the personal level has been enhanced by live chats (such as Gmail hangout, Facebook Messenger etc.) Mobile phones also allow SMS and email communication with friends. Indeed, technological growth and online environments have positively enhanced the way society communicates at a personal level.

Correspondingly, technological growth, especially in the realms of online environments has immeasurably impacted the way the society communicates at the professional level. Today, professionals can advertise their skills in various online social media sites. LinkedIn, for example, is a platform that allows experts in the multiple fields to interact and share career-related ideas, an aspect that is critical for their professional growth (Tachikawa, 2013). Moreover, the platform allows employers to identify individuals that match the needed requisite skills in their organizations. Besides, Whatsapp allows staff members of an organization to form a group whereby they exchange critical information regarding the organization that they work in. The online environment also provides video conferencing, whereby people can interact face-to-face with others despite being located many miles away. Thus, affirmatively, online environments have positively contributed to the way professionals communicate in society.

How Changes in Methods of Communication Create Communication Gaps in the Society

Firstly, the invention of communication gadgets such as mobile phones and computers has impacted the quality of the information being relayed. The possibility of remote communication, especially at low costs, has consequently led to a decline in face-to-face communication (Tachikawa, 2013). This, in turn, has made more people rely on written and verbal communication over the internet. Secondly, there has been an increased trend of people shortening words with the little observance of grammatical rules (Tachikawa, 2013). Dejectedly, this trend has also permeated in the business community. Some people find it challenging to uncover the meaning of such words, and thus, it creates a communication gap. Noteworthy, the adoption of technology has widened communication gap between citizens in developed and developing countries. This is because most of the citizens in the latter countries are poor and illiterate and hence, they cannot afford to purchase nor operate technologically advanced communication gadgets.

Ways of Bridging Communication Gaps that Arises as a Result of Technological Growth in the Society

Many strategies can be leveraged to bridge the communication gap that arises as a result of technological growth in the society. First, people should be encouraged to always use the right medium (Crowley & Heyer, 2015). Indisputably, technology provides a spectrum of platforms that people can use to communicate. However, this only works well if the appropriate medium is adopted. For example, email should be used for messages that are direct and simple to understand. However, when one uses humour and sarcasm, it can easily be misconstrued. Secondly, people should avoid using shortening words when addressing critical issues, especially in the business sphere. Thirdly, to overcome communication driven communication gap, people should consider using the appropriate number of words depending on how you associate with the person you are communicating to. Finally, organizations should hire employees that are computer proficient. Moreover, they should be willing to learn new concepts that will improve their communication skills, especially in today's digital era.

In overall, human language is complex and has evolved over the years, with countless path-breaking discoveries and inventions that have heralded a revolution in the way humans communicate. Technological advancements, especially telephone, computers, and mobile phones, have significantly impacted the way people communicate. In my view, in future, I foresee a drastic decline in the print industry, especially because people will have more access to eBooks, audiobooks, and iBook. On the other hand, the future is bright for the auto voice translating and interpreting apps since more people will be technologically versed. Indeed, technological advancements will change the dynamic of communications in all facets of the world.

References

Alberts, J. K., Nakayama, T. K., & Martin, J. N. (2010). Human communication in society. Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon.

Berwick, R. C., & Chomsky, N. (2016). Why only us: Language and evolution. MIT press.

Crowley, D., & Heyer, P., (2015). Communication in history: Technology, culture, society. Routledge.

Grant, A. E., & Meadows, J. H., (2016). Communication...