Should generational differences in communication be considered culturally based? Why or why not?

Question

Should generational differences in communication be considered culturally based? Why or why not?

Answer 1

Usually generational differences skip a generation, so ultimately they EVEN out!

Aristotle said, "The reason that Grandparents, and Grandchildren get along so well, is because they have a common enemy"...

Answer 2

Yes, they are culturally based.

Communication is the sharing of ideas (most broadly defined).  Communication itself can only occur in a system of shared signs (semiotics).  Words, sentences, grammar, syntax etc all only function as devices for communication if what they refer to is understood by both parties.  Because of this crucial social structure, human beings are capable of complex communication.  Because language obviously varies across the world we can say with all certainty that this is a cultural construction.

Differences in communication (be they generational or geographical) can only therefore arise through cultural differences, generational differences being evidence that culture can change very rapidly, especially in the presence of mass media and communication.

Answer 3

Not likely. Generational differences are a human universal. Find a significant proportion of cultures that do not differentiate by generation and you may argue the point. Otherwise. no.

Answer 4

Wow, complex question! The base line is that it depends on what the causes of the differences in communication are. If the causes are culturally determined then the answer is "Yes". So, I suppose if the differences in communication are caused by such factors as social values, morals, aesthetics, or religion, then the differences are cultural.

Otherwise the differences might be technologically based (e.g. more advanced media technology and its effects). All seems to depend on how broadly you define "Culture".

Answer 5

Good question and a thumbs up for eternal but no, it would be the same as trade lingo. Even in the military, I noticed a problem in the communication between the different branches. Not good but definitely the same culture. Technology is making things worst. Look up "oracle" and you get the computer term and not the priestess.  Some day, people will forget that a mouse is a live creature.