Power of Words

The Tyranny of Words- some fifteen years ago- put the word "semantics" into popular usage. Today, with the science of communication a prime factor in international as well as national areas, a re-exploration of the field is imperative. The purpose of this scholarly book is to interpret significant findings and point out the applications to the field of communication. The failures tend to balance off the advantages; improvement is essential - and understanding a necessary basis. He explores the channels- the theories that have developed- the role in community interchange, where the cultural concept is cardinal to understanding. The linguist today is a key factor; his flexibility, his acceptance of the death of the old order, the birth of the new, these are heartening notes. Thinking is now accepted as a language process- not the reverse. In the new language of science "concepts must be so ordered that present experience does not bind the future". He analyzes the contributions made by leading semanticists, particularly Alfred Korzybski, Ogden and Richards, HayaKawa, etc. He outlines the principles of the dynamics of group studies at the institute in Bethel, Maine. In the last half of the book devoted to the application of the study, he offers more- perhaps- for the average layman, for writers, economists, politicians. He points out the danger signals, the semantic distortions, the assets and liabilities of mass media. Particularly interesting is his section on the demagogue,- his strength lying in the lack of security of the little people, his techniques those of Hitler and Stalin. Challenging too his chapter on Schoolroom Talk- and the seven defenses against the enemy of boredom. He puts the new found communication principles to work on long range, day to day problems, evidence that "the power of words" belongs on the level of daily living. An important book, rewarding the close reading it demands. (Kirkus Reviews)
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