Relevance theory

Definition

Relevance theory is a cognitive approach to communication that suggests that human understanding relies on the perceived relevance of information in a given context. It posits that people naturally seek information that is both new and useful, thereby optimizing their cognitive resources while interpreting messages. This theory emphasizes the role of context and how it influences meaning, aligning closely with discussions on how meaning and reference are constructed in communication.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Relevance theory was primarily developed by cognitive scientists Dan Sperber and Deirdre Wilson in the 1980s.
2. It argues that human communication is guided by the search for relevance, leading individuals to filter out information that seems unimportant or irrelevant.
3. The theory suggests that meaning is not fixed but is shaped by the context in which communication occurs, allowing for flexibility in interpretation.
4. According to relevance theory, effective communication occurs when the information presented provokes sufficient cognitive effects without excessive processing effort.
5. Relevance theory has implications beyond language, influencing areas such as social interactions, advertising, and even artificial intelligence in understanding human communication.

Review Questions

• How does relevance theory explain the role of context in shaping meaning during communication?
  • Relevance theory highlights that context plays a crucial role in determining how messages are interpreted. It suggests that individuals assess the relevance of information based on their current knowledge and goals. This means that what may be considered relevant can vary significantly among individuals depending on their unique contexts, leading to different interpretations of the same message. Essentially, context shapes not only what information is prioritized but also how it is understood and integrated into existing knowledge.
• Discuss how relevance theory contrasts with traditional referential theories of meaning and reference.
  • Relevance theory differs from traditional referential theories by focusing less on fixed meanings associated with words and more on the dynamic process of communication. While referential theories often prioritize direct relationships between words and their referents, relevance theory argues that meaning is derived from the interplay between information and context. It posits that communication is an active process where individuals filter and infer meaning based on perceived relevance rather than solely relying on predefined references.
• Evaluate the implications of relevance theory for understanding non-verbal communication in social interactions.
  • Relevance theory provides valuable insights into non-verbal communication by suggesting that individuals interpret gestures, facial expressions, and other non-verbal cues based on their contextual relevance. In social interactions, these non-verbal signals can convey meanings that complement or even contradict verbal messages. By applying relevance theory, we can better understand how people navigate complex social environments, seeking cues that are most pertinent to their situation and using them to derive meaning. This perspective also aids in examining how misunderstandings may arise when non-verbal signals are misinterpreted due to contextual differences.

Related terms

Pragmatics:

The branch of linguistics that studies how context influences the interpretation of meaning in language.

Inference: The process of deriving logical conclusions from premises known or assumed to be true, often essential in interpreting implied meanings.

Contextualism:

An approach that stresses the importance of context in understanding meaning, often contrasting with more rigid, referential theories.