Chapter 4: Theories

Chapter 4 talks about how common sense is only relative to an individual and their view of the Good. Arnett relates common sense to Communication theory which is interesting. Theories help guide our view on different aspects of communication. On page 70, a theory is said to give us vision and insight on different aspects of communication while clouding our view of it at the same time. This is to say that we gain a new perspective of our own common sense of communication because we know what elements to look for that is going to be different to how other people without the knowledge of theory view the same communication elements.

I see how theory can offer me a sense of how others communicate. I observe my siblings relationships and can relate theory to them to offer some sort of explanation for how their partners act sometimes. I offer possible explanations to why their partners act and how my siblings act in relation to theory. I understand that they don't view common sense in relationships the same way I do because they don't have the theory guide that I have learned. This difference comes about when they get frustrated with their partners' behavior because they assume roles or certain dialogue from them. I don't assume these roles but I offer information on theories to help explain a situation in terms of theory. Neither me or my siblings share a common sense in relationships because of the way we view them.