Martin Buber’s work suggests that real life begins with two individuals engaged in dialogue, not just taking care of one’s own needs as described in social Darwinism.
Arnett argues that the end of the age of abundance demands that we give up the communicative strategies of the past and seek to work together in the midst of limited resources and an uncertain future. Today’s situation calls for an unwavering commitment to Buber’s “narrow ridge” concern for both self and community.
Arnett illustrates the narrow ridge definition of interpersonal communication with rich examples. His vignettes demonstrate effective and ineffective approaches to human community. An effective approach, he makes clear, incorporates not only openness to others’ points of view but also a willingness to be persuaded.
This review is from: Communication and Community: Implications of Martin Buber's Dialogue (Paperback)
This is a vital philosophical interpretation of Buber's work necessary for any student of Organizational and/or Ethical communication. I draw on Arnett's work, as both a student and as a corporate communicator, for his relevant and inspirational insights into everyday communicative situations that are not covered in most employee handbooks. Arnett's understanding and interpretation of the philosophical anthropologist Martin Buber's most important theories is the foundation of this book, but it is also Arnett's heartfelt prayer for a renewal of hope in creating, communicating and belonging to communities.
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This review is from: Communication and Community: Implications of Martin Buber's Dialogue (Paperback)
This theoretically and practically helpful book is still current after almost two decades in print. I use it in my classes each year, and students comment regularly on its helpfulness. The discussion of responsibility and power in organizational life is insightful. I recommend this book to thoughtful persons interested in engaging ideas in the marketplace, the public square, and interpersonal interaction.
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This review is from: Communication and Community: Implications of Martin Buber's Dialogue (Paperback)
I very much expected to have the opportunity to review and develop my personal communication method with the reference of this books material. Instead I found myself sifting through lists of theory and reference, after reference, to other authors ideas compacted into nutshell form. If I wanted the ideas of these other authors I would have bought their material instead. I quickly found a use for this book as a wedge style book stop in my den. Thanks for nothing.
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