Final answer:
Both the sender and receiver are responsible for ensuring the correct message is received. The sender must clearly encode and transmit the message, while the receiver should be attentive and interpret the message in the given context. This applies to all communication, from personal interactions to the search for extraterrestrial intelligence.
Step-by-step explanation:
In communication, both the sender and the receiver have responsibilities to ensure that the correct message is received. The sender must clearly encode and transmit the message, considering the intended audience and context. For instance, the use of cell phones for communication among individuals demonstrates the importance of encoding messages correctly to reach the intended recipient without interference, which draws a parallel to cell communication in biology.
Moreover, in historical contexts, understanding who is the sender and the receiver, whether the document is public or private, and the intended audience, is key to properly interpreting any document or message.
When considering communication on a cosmic scale, as in the "Cosmic Haystack" scenario, one must decide whether to send or receive messages. If every civilization chooses only to receive, then no messages will be exchanged. However, beginning by listening can be appropriate, especially for civilizations that may be more primitive technologically.