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• Harding’s Standpoint Theory: Harding emphasizes the importance of marginalized perspectives in understanding social reality. She argues that knowledge is situated and that marginalized groups have unique insights that can challenge dominant discourses.
• Wood’s Feminist Theory: Wood examines how gender inequality shapes communication practices. She highlights the ways in which women’s voices are often silenced or marginalized in patriarchal societies.

The convergence of these theories lies in their shared critique of dominant ideologies and their emphasis on the importance of marginalized voices. All three theorists argue that communication is not neutral but is shaped by power relations. By understanding these power dynamics, we can challenge oppressive systems and work towards a more equitable society.

2. Power and Perception of Issues

The powerful in society often define the concerns and experiences of marginalized groups in ways that serve their own interests. This can lead to misrepresentation, misunderstanding, and the perpetuation of inequality. For example, when discussing issues of racial inequality, powerful individuals may frame the problem as one of individual responsibility rather than systemic injustice. This framing can deflect attention from the root causes of inequality and limit the scope of potential solutions.

3. The Strong Black Woman Controlling Image

Shardé Davis’s work on the “strong Black woman” controlling image highlights the ways in which Black women are often expected to be strong, resilient, and self-sufficient. While this image can be empowering, it can also be limiting, as it can lead to the suppression of emotions, the neglect of self-care, and the perpetuation of stereotypes. Black women who do not conform to this image may face criticism and judgment.

4. Strong Objectivity

Strong objectivity is a methodological approach that seeks to minimize bias by adhering to strict scientific standards. It emphasizes the importance of objectivity, neutrality, and value-free research. However, critics argue that this approach can perpetuate existing power structures by ignoring the social and political contexts of research.

An example of communication research based on strong objectivity might be a quantitative study that examines the effects of a particular type of media message on a specific audience. Such a study would focus on measurable variables and statistical analysis, aiming to produce objective findings.

The critique of strong objectivity suggests that researchers should be more reflexive about their own biases and the social and political contexts of their research. By acknowledging the limitations of objectivity, researchers can produce more nuanced and insightful findings.