Logical empiricism and the study of human communication

Abstract

The logical empiricist philosophy of science which underpins the bulk of contemporary communication research is outlined and recent criticisms of this view are surveyed. Two implications concerning the conduct of communication theory and research are drawn from these criticisms: (i) maximally productive research involves the systematic extension, elaboration, and defense of a theoretical framework and (ii) theoretical and conceptual analysis should be recognized as an important element in the achievement of a satisfactory theoretical account.