Although speech is the most advanced form of
communication, there are many ways of communicating without using speech.
Signals, signs, symbols, and gestures may be found in every known culture. The
basic function of signal is to impinge upon the environment in
such a way that it attracts attention, as, for example, the dots
and dashes of a telegraph circuit. Coded to refer to speech, the potential
for communication is very great. Less adaptable to the codification of words,
signs also contain meanings in and of themselves. A stop sign or a barber pole
conveys meaning quickly and conveniently. Symbols are more difficult to
describe than either signals or signs because of their intricate
relationship with the receiver's cultural perceptions. In some cultures,
applauding in a theater provides performers with an auditory symbol of
approval. Gestures such as waving and handshaking also communicate certain
cultural messages.
Although signals, signs, symbols, and
gestures are very useful, they do have a major disadvantage in communication.
They usually do not allow ideas to be shared without the sender being directly
adjacent to the receiver. Without an exchange of ideas, interaction comes to a
halt. As a result, means of communication intended to be used for long
distances and extended periods must be based upon speech. Radio, television,
and the telephone are only a few
It may be concluded from the passage that _______.
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