Communication Is Symbolic

As we discuss in Chapter 3, the most arbitrary symbolic behavior is language. There is no particular reason why the letters t-r-e-e should represent a very large plant form, but they do. And in Chapter 4, you learn that gestures serve a similar purpose. Holding up your thumb while clenching your other fingers stands for “good job” in U.S. culture, though you likely don’t need to have this fact explained.

Communication relies on the use of symbols—arbitrary constructions (usually language or behaviors) that refer to objects: people, things, and ideas. The stronger the connection is between symbol and object, the clearer the intended meaning, and vice versa. For example, our customer greeted the street vendor with a smile and a nod—behaviors clearly indicating the idea of “greeting.”

A symbol can take on a new meaning if at least two people agree that it will have that meaning for them. A romantic couple might share a specific “look” that communicates their mutual affection; three friends might have a gesture that signifies an inside joke. Social groups, such as fraternities and sororities or sports teams, might use a handshake, password, or article of clothing to set themselves apart from others. We cover the use of such verbal and nonverbal symbols more deeply in Chapters 3, 4, and 5.