Interpretive vs. Objective Theory: Communication Studies
Interpretive Theory Compared to Objective Theory
Lindsey Corradino
June 9, 2013
Texas Tech University
Interpretative and Objective Theory
Introduction Understanding the differences and similarities of interpretive and objective theory approaches is key to further expand one’s knowledge of communication studies. Author of A First Look at Communication Theory Em Griffin, describes interpretive theories as “the linguistic work of assigning meaning or value to communicative texts; assumes that multiple meanings or truths are possible” (Griffin, p.15). He also defines objective theory as “the assumption that truth is singular and is accessible through unbiased sensory observation; committed to uncovering cause-and-effect relationships” (Griffin, p.14). Each type of theory has a set of standards, along with the core ideas, theoretical orientation, and theoretical tradition, along with a few life applications each theory: all of which I will discuss below.
Key Theorists Griffin examines the differing work of two professors whom he met at Wheaton college, a behavioral scientist Glenn Sparks, and rhetorician Marty Medhurst. Each take a different approach to communication from instances such as Glenn training in empirical research and Marty being schooled in rhetorical theory and criticism, according to Griffin 2007. Glenn takes a more objective approach by forming his theory by wanting to explain as well as predict. On the flip side, Marty takes an interpretive approach to communication, which, revolves around the want to find meaning for everything. I will use both theorists to help better understand the differences in interpretative and objective approaches. Interpretative and objective approaches both contain standards that vary, and their core ideas revolve around the different standards that each approach contains.
Core Ideas In order to actually understand the core ideas of these theories, I will highlight what each of the standards is for the
Lindsey Corradino
June 9, 2013
Texas Tech University
Interpretative and Objective Theory
Introduction Understanding the differences and similarities of interpretive and objective theory approaches is key to further expand one’s knowledge of communication studies. Author of A First Look at Communication Theory Em Griffin, describes interpretive theories as “the linguistic work of assigning meaning or value to communicative texts; assumes that multiple meanings or truths are possible” (Griffin, p.15). He also defines objective theory as “the assumption that truth is singular and is accessible through unbiased sensory observation; committed to uncovering cause-and-effect relationships” (Griffin, p.14). Each type of theory has a set of standards, along with the core ideas, theoretical orientation, and theoretical tradition, along with a few life applications each theory: all of which I will discuss below.
Key Theorists Griffin examines the differing work of two professors whom he met at Wheaton college, a behavioral scientist Glenn Sparks, and rhetorician Marty Medhurst. Each take a different approach to communication from instances such as Glenn training in empirical research and Marty being schooled in rhetorical theory and criticism, according to Griffin 2007. Glenn takes a more objective approach by forming his theory by wanting to explain as well as predict. On the flip side, Marty takes an interpretive approach to communication, which, revolves around the want to find meaning for everything. I will use both theorists to help better understand the differences in interpretative and objective approaches. Interpretative and objective approaches both contain standards that vary, and their core ideas revolve around the different standards that each approach contains.
Core Ideas In order to actually understand the core ideas of these theories, I will highlight what each of the standards is for the
Cited: Griffin, E. M. (2007). A first look at communication theory. (7th. ed.). Boston, MA: McGraw-Hill