An Evaluation of Bernard Lonergan Idea of “Communication as Sharing of Meaning”

This paper evaluates Bernard Lonergan’s idea of communication as sharing of meaning, emphasizing its philosophical depth and social relevance. Some scholars have reduced communication to exchange of information or opinion. Lonergan’s idea on communication seeks to move beyond engagement towards reflective dialogue that seeks to understand diverse perspectives. The pattern of integrating Lonergan’s thought in contemporary discussion in communication has hardly gotten any scholar’s attention. This paper adopts the methods of hermeneutics and synthesis. This study explores the implication of Lonergan’ idea of communication for fostering authentic dialogue and social cohesion. The significance of this study is to highlight the enduring value of Lonergan’s thought in promoting empathy, critical reflection and constructive human interaction. The research findings show that in effective communication, the subjects involved in communication must be active and dynamic. From the research, we discover that Lonergan’s idea on communication opens up avenue for intercultural philosophy. This paper argues that Lonergan’s idea of communication as sharing of meaning opens up a new vista for effective communication and a better appreciation of meaning.