The Best Type of Communication

Communication, which is the art of transmitting messages among humans, is as old as man. It comes in many forms and continuously evolves with the changing times. Archeological excavations provide tangible proofs of inscriptions in caves or in tablets like the hieroglyphics, while stories also abound which are handed down from one generation to another by word of mouth. Modern technology has categorically overhauled the way by which people convey their thoughts. The advent of computers introduced electronic mails amidst the persistence of snail mails, telephone calls and face-to-face interaction. Others adhere to the expeditious nature of e-mails or the convenience of telephones or the romanticism of penned letters, but the paramount mode of exchange of ideas for me is with personal presence.

Nowadays, social engagements are made possible by unlimited forms of media. However,only intimate meetings lend particular details which are inherent in such. These are facial expressions most especially the eyes which express emotions, sometimes contradicting uttered words. Tone of voice can also be compared with gestures, appearance, as well as with thoughts relayed. Meanwhile, a person's mien and care taken with one's grooming also contribute to complete judgments and perceptions. In addition, face-to-face interactions give weight to the momentous event be it a political rally, a job interview, or a casual date. Being present at the pre-agreed arrangement indicates the intention to complete a task, decisiveness and cooperation, thus, cementing stronger relations.

Misunderstandings arise when people communicate at different levels. The language game can be delineated, but it is during personal encounters which permit repartee that corrections are immediately conveyed to clarify misconceptions. Furthermore, the problem of transmitting ideas to the wrong party and consequentlty losing it, can be avoided. Otherwise, repercussions can be fatal especially during political instability.

Conversely, electronic mails, snail mails and telephone calls allow messages to be imparted with ease without having to travel. Stamped letters go with an air of romance, though sometimes can be regarded as anachronistic during these times of instantaneous relay of thoughts across the globe. With the proliferation of telecommunications and the use of world wide web, these are the most favored means of communication because ample supply is accompanied by lower cost, plus its x-factor which is speed. However, since the person can communicate incognito, it also gave way to certain social crimes. If in the past, psychopaths physically scaled the environment for their victims, they now scour the net for unsuspecting people. Thus, there is a rising incidence of Internet criminals who prey on young online chatters and there are those who steal other's identity to access their bank accounts. Aside from that, there are also malicious individuals or organizations who spread venomous messages against race, religion or other individuals while remaining concealed.

Clearly, all these modes of communication are beneficial to society. New technology in the future can give rise to other ways of bridging gaps between people but personal interaction shall still carry the same characteristics which enrich social engagement. People can use different words, but the intricacies of intimate conversation may not be equaled nor relayed completely via technological gadgets. Hence, face-to-face communication still stands sovereign over all other modes.