Aristotles model of communication, also known as the "golden rule" of communication, is a linear and speaker-centric model that focuses on public speaking. It was developed by the Greek philosopher and orator Aristotle before 300 B.C. This model is widely accepted and commonly used in preparing speeches, lectures, and seminars.
The key elements of Aristotle's model of communication are:
-
Speaker: The sender or the person delivering the message. The speaker plays the most important role in communication, as they are responsible for creating an impressive content and delivering the message effectively.
-
Speech: The message or information being conveyed by the speaker. The speech should be designed to influence the audience's thoughts and persuade them towards the speaker's point of view.
-
Occasion: The context or the situation in which the communication takes place. The speaker should tailor their speech to the specific occasion and audience.
-
Audience: The receivers of the message. In Aristotle's model, the audience is considered passive, with the main focus on the speaker's ability to influence and persuade them.
-
Effect: The desired outcome or response from the audience. The speaker's goal is to make the audience respond and act accordingly to the message.
Aristotle's model of communication is mainly used in public speaking, seminars, and lectures, which limits its usefulness in other forms of communication. One of the main criticisms of this model is its lack of feedback, as it is a one-way communication process with no scope for the audience to provide input. Additionally, the model does not include the concept of barriers and noise, which can affect the effectiveness of communication in real-life situations.