Communication Theory

Featuring contributed chapters from established and emerging communication theorists with varied cultural backgrounds and identities, Communication Theory: Racially Diverse and Inclusive Perspectives decenters traditional views of communication by highlighting perspectives from the global majority. The text deviates from a white-colonial-normative theoretical core to provide students with a more holistic exploration of communication theory.

The book helps readers understand how the communicative experiences of marginalized groups represent important theoretical frames necessary for a full, comprehensive view of communication. It offers innovative conceptions of communication theorizing centered in and through the perspectives of African American/Black, Latinx, Asian American, and Indigenous/First Nations people. Through the presentation of canonized theories alongside innovative, cutting-edge theories, the text challenges students to expand and enhance the ways in which they see, use, and apply communication theory.

A unique feature of the text is the inclusion of storied reflections-personal narratives that reveal scholars at various stages of their careers ruminating on their own experiences with theory. These reflections demonstrate how ethnic and racialized standpoints can inform and advance scholarship within the discipline.

Communication Theory presents an inclusive, holistic approach to communication theory and inspires continued exploration, research, and theory in the discipline. It can serve as a primary textbook as well as a companion volume to other textbooks on communication theory.