Who

Definition

In the context of communication models, particularly Lasswell's model, 'who' refers to the sender or communicator of a message. This component is essential because it establishes the source of information, shaping how the message is constructed and perceived by the audience. Understanding 'who' allows for analysis of the motivations, credibility, and potential biases that influence the communication process.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Who' identifies not only the sender but also plays a role in determining the effectiveness of the message.
2. Lasswell's model emphasizes the importance of analyzing who is sending the message to understand its impact.
3. The characteristics of 'who', such as authority or expertise, can significantly affect audience engagement and interpretation.
4. Identifying 'who' helps reveal potential biases that could shape the content of the message.
5. In political communication, 'who' often relates to figures of authority or public interest, influencing public opinion and response.

Review Questions

• How does understanding 'who' enhance our analysis of communication effectiveness in Lasswell's model?
  • 'Who' enhances our analysis by highlighting the sender's role in shaping messages. By understanding the communicator's background, motivations, and credibility, we can better assess how these factors affect message construction and audience reception. This insight allows us to critically evaluate the trustworthiness and influence of the information presented.
• Discuss how characteristics of 'who' might impact audience perception in a political communication context.
  • 'Who' plays a critical role in shaping audience perception, particularly in political communication. The authority, credibility, and personal background of political figures influence how their messages are received. If an audience perceives a politician as trustworthy and knowledgeable, they are more likely to accept their message without skepticism, whereas a lack of credibility may lead to distrust and rejection of their communications.
• Evaluate the implications of 'who' on media framing and public discourse in contemporary society.
  • 'Who' has significant implications for media framing and public discourse by determining how messages are shaped and perceived. The identity and credibility of communicators can lead to bias in reporting, where certain viewpoints may be favored over others based on who is delivering them. This dynamic shapes public understanding and discourse, highlighting how crucial it is to critically engage with sources in an age where information is abundant but often unverified.

Related terms

Sender:

The individual or entity that originates the message in a communication process.

Source Credibility: The degree to which the audience perceives the sender as trustworthy and knowledgeable, which affects how the message is received.

Communication Context: The environment or situation in which communication takes place, influencing how messages are crafted and interpreted.