Don't Just Hear, Listen

 

Listening to Marc Steiner's talk at UMBC brought me to think about how I communicate with others, and also how my idea of communication was created. Talking about the myths we grew up believing, such as George Washington cutting down the cherry tree, all were stories passed down that we accepted. Hearing this example along with the others that he provided illustrated to me the importance of not believing everything "media", passing of information even if it is informal as mouth to mouth or gossip, and making certain that these stories have validity through other sources.

When Marc started discussing when he showed a video to different cultures of people; African American, White and American Indian; about communication and what it means the responses he received after were interesting. The White and African American people had long lengthy answers to what communication was; however, the American Indians only said communication was "listening". This changed how he took his radio show, The Marc Steiner Show, and changed it to become more listening and hearing what story the individual has to tell and less about trying to mold the interview into what was expected.

This was a eureka moment for me because I felt that if someone were to ask me what communication was I would never think to summarize it into one word and having that word carry such large meaning behind it. But hearing communication explained as listening made me think about how true it is, without listening every form of communication is useless because one person can talk as much as he or she wants but if nobody is listening then all of the time and energy is wasted. Also, without listening no sort of understanding can be set between individuals or groups of people because listening is being able to not only hear what the other is saying but begin to piece together and understand their point of view.

Being able to listen to this talk from Marc Steiner changed how I approach any situation where I need to exchange ideas with others. I'll be able to know that coming with a more open mind and not assume one idea is the best before hearing all sides will bring a greater benefit and make things easier. Also that media and communication can be skewed to make people think one way, so multiple sources is important to reach the full story and make sure what is being spread is true.