The Evolution of Communication Theory Over the Past 50 Years: An Analysis of the Multi-Edition Book "Theories of Human Communication" 1978 - 2021

Background: Academic textbooks are indispensable resources facilitating the organisation and dissemination of scholarly knowledge within a given field. The scientific ideas set forth and elucidated in academic textbooks will delineate the trajectory and direction of how these ideas will be employed and utilised by a range of users. Consequently, academic textbooks indirectly influence the evolution of scholarly thought. Objective: This paper examines the evolution of communication theory by analysing successive editions of Stephen W. Littlejohn's academic textbook Theories of Human Communication, which was published from 1978 to 2021. Methodology: This paper employs a textual analysis of each edition of the book to investigate the evolution of communication theory. It Examines the progression of communication theory by comparing the changes and additions to the content of each edition. It equally investigates the evolution of communication theory and its response to the latest trends. Results: An analysis of 12 editions of Littlejohn's "Theories of Human Communication" reveals the significant evolution of communication theory. Each edition reflects the adaptation and adjustment of theory to changing social, technological, and academic contexts. The stages include incremental, developmental, canonical, and revolutionary growth, indicating the gradual addition, elaboration, stabilisation, and radical paradigmatic shifts in theory development. The findings confirm that communication theory constantly evolves and adapts to remain relevant amidst dynamic contextual changes. Conclusion: This paper demonstrates the dynamic evolution of communication theory, which initially posited that communication theory is a multidisciplinary field. It employs a multi-theoretical approach to advance the study of communication in a scientific manner while retaining the interdisciplinary nature of other sciences. Unique Contribution: The analysis of the content of the 12 editions of the book Human Communication Theories illustrates the stages of communication theory evolution over 50 years. Incremental growth (1978 - 1989), developmental growth (1989-2005), canonical development (2005-2017), and revolutionary period, 2017-2021. Key Recommendation: This analysis of 12 communication theory books offers insights into the field's evolution, strengths, weaknesses, and future. It serves as a valuable contribution, critically reflecting on scientific challenges and developments in communication studies.