Final answer:
Communication within the context of Symbolic Interactionist Theory involves the active exchange of meaning through symbols and language, with individuals shaping their social world. This dynamic process is deeply rooted in the socio-cultural environment influencing how people perceive and interact with one another.
Step-by-step explanation:
Communication as an Interaction in a Socio-Cultural Context
Communication is fundamental to human existence and is the mechanism by which people convey and interpret the symbolic nature of the world around them. According to Symbolic Interactionist Theory, developed by sociologists such as Herbert Blumer, individuals actively shape their social world through the exchange of meaning via language and symbols. This process is not passive; people are not merely acted upon by their society, but rather they participate in its creation and modification.
The aspect of 'interaction' within communication refers to the dynamic social process where meanings are continuously negotiated and understood through the use of symbols and language. Each individual’s understanding is influenced by their socio-cultural background, which infuses communication with nuance and complexity. In face-to-face interactions, this becomes particularly evident, as people interpret and define each other's actions and reactions, contributing to the shared culture.
Symbolic interactionism is a micro-level theory that elevates the significance of these day-to-day interactions and the socio-cultural aspect of communication. It does so by asserting that individuals create the social world through the meanings that arise from their interactions. Therefore, to understand society deeply, or verstehen, one must comprehend the symbols and language individuals use to interact, which are in turn influenced by the cultural and social context.