Week 2 Question 2

According to the pragmatic view, "communication consists of a system of interlocking, interdependent behaviors that become patterned over time"(Trenholm). It makes sense that certain actions are a results of others thus following a pattern. In one of last weeks discussions, the ritual of saying hello to someone follows a very similar pattern from person to person. But at the same time, the pragmatic view does not take in to factor any other outside influences. Instead it just focuses on the actions and reactions. Outside incluences would include cutlure, personal needs, or intentions.

Communication is similar like a game because based on what someone says, your response is based upon answering their statement. The situation and context of what is being communicated gives you a range of options of what you can respond to, much like a game of chess. Every piece of this game has limited ranges of movement, and based on what your opponent moves, you select the most appropriate piece to defend or gain an advantage.

Communication is different from a game because communication factors in outside influences. A game is in response to the others move, but communication is a response based on someones past, present and future. No two people communicate the same or have gone through the exact same experiences the same way, thus influencing how they communicate.