Discussion Questions

  1. How does your attitude toward a book or its content influence what it teaches you?
  2. What are your predispositions toward this class? How will those feelings influence your communication in and about this class?
  3. Under what circumstances do you adopt a critical perspective in your own life?
  4. Taking into consideration your cultural locations, explain a moment when your awareness of power in a relationship (e.g., with a friend, romantic partner, co-worker, etc.) taught you something about yourself, the other person(s), or communication in general. Or, if you disagree with Warren and Fassett’s argument, explain why.
  5. In Chapter 1, Warren and Fassett discuss the intent and effect of a statement(s). Do you think that the intent of a person’s statement is more significant than its effect? Or do you think that both intent and effect are equally significant? Explain why.
  6. Warren and Fassett admit, “For us, the reason to study anything is because when we study it, we might then be able to change it, improve it, or see it in a new light.” Is this reason similar to your reasons for studying a subject?  Are there certain subjects you would never think to study for the purpose of changing it, improving it, or seeing it in a new light? If so, what subjects, and why would you never study them for these reasons? Also, do you think teachers, in general, encourage students to study a subject for this reason? Why do you think they may or may not do this?