Third-Culture Building: A Paradigm Shift for International and Intercultural Communication

Abstract

Western/Northern scholars have developed models of communication and rhetoric that have been based on persuasion, logic, and the exertion of influence over listeners by well-trained, skilled speakers and writers. On the other hand, foundations for different, nontraditional approaches have been made available for some time, in both the United States and Europe. They can assist us in developing a new model for human interactions, based on mutual respect, concern, and the development of new processes for sharing the limited resources found in a given environment A reexamination of contemporary international and intercultural affairs presents powerful reasons for paradigms that are more responsive to existing needs. The building of third cultures represents one situation in which individuals Find it necessary to make important responses to their environment as well as to human needs within that environment. These responses can be based on mutually developed values, communication, and organizational systems, rather than dominance/submission paradigms. Informed by the original cultures two or more individuals have left behind, third cultures include new, effective, and mutually acceptable ways of benefiting from human relationships.