Coordinated Management of Meaning

The theory that I chose to summarize is the Coordinated Management of Meaning (CMM) and the specific article that I chose to analyze in relation to CMM is titled The Possibility of critical dialogue in the theory of CMM written by Victoria Chen. In this article CMM is described as a communication theory with a critical edge in which the specific function is revealed through systemic questions in critical dialogue. The purpose of this article is rooted in the idea of how systemic questioning, specifically related to power, provides a framework by which the address of issues in relation to privilege in social relations may occur. According to Chen (2004), “CMM is more than a communication theory; it is a way of seeing and experiencing the world” (p.179).  

            Chen (2004) points out that given her involvement in the development of CMM while also having research interests in intercultural communication, she finds herself in a precarious situation of having to “defend” CMM in conversations amongst critical theorists who may not have a solid perception of CMM, but still hold no reservations of being critics (p.179). Throughout the article Chen (2004) attempts to debunk the commonly perceived weakness of CMM and sets forth the argument that the issue of power has a place in CMM research (p.179). She makes the claim that CMM theory should not merely be identified as an interpretive theory. Chen (2004) has made the recognition that, “CMM investigates power by treating communication as the primary process that is constantly evolving instead of an abstract system of constructs” (p.179). 

            As Griffin (2009) paraphrased the initial assertion of CMM, as put forth by Pearce and Cronen, “every conversation has an afterlife” (p.69). Griffin (2009) goes on to note that the social reality of our future is the afterlife of our interactions in the present time (p.69). This a helpful premise in relation to and understanding of Chen’s article with respect to the social power that certain individuals are privileged with over others. Chen (2004) utilizes the Cupertino Community Project, part of the 1996 Public Dialogue Consortium, as a resource to draw upon in relation to how people’s perceptions differ (p.184; Griffin, 2009, p.71). Chen references the dialogue that unfolded in this example as to how systemic questioning successfully creates a framework from which relational power structure issues may be recognized. Chen (2004) goes on to note that, “If conducted skillfully and effectively, an array of systemic questions can provide a way to explore power dynamics as constructed in the stories told by participants” (p.184).

            The ideas and methods by which Chen has utilized to describe the effectiveness and usefulness of CMM can be used in everyday life by everyone. The methods that she and other CMM researchers have set forth can be utilized in community work projects in relation the lack of power that is given to minorities in the completion of projects. The same methods can be used to help those who are privileged come to a realization that those who are not empowered are not merely lazy or unmotivated, but rather have extra burdens to overcome. It would be very interesting and should be mandatory for all members of public organizations and political governmental positioins whose purpose is to serve the well-being of society to become well versed in CMM as theorized by Chen (2004). Perspectives within our society would change and the possibility of true equality would have a much better foundation to stand upon.

Works Cited

Chen, V. (2004). The possibility of critical dialogue in the theory of CMM. Human Systems: The Journal of Systemic Consultation & Management, 15(3), pp.179-192.

Grffin, E. (2009). Communication: a first look at communication theory, 7th ed. NY: McGraw Hill.