Dialog Vs. Other Forms of Discourse
An Outline for Exploration
The word "Dialog" carries many
meanings, e. g. (from a dictionary):
a: a conversation between two or more persons;
b: an exchange of ideas and opinions;
c: a discussion between representatives of
parties to a conflict that is aimed at resolution.
In activities like those of B'sod Siah and similar
organizations the term "dialog" is used with a more distinct (though
not necessarily explicit) sense.
It is this sense that the present session explores by means of comparing Dialog
with some other forms of discourse.
The selection of discourses
to be viewed, encompasses:
Debate,
Negotiation, Meeting of a working team, Quarrel of children, Tutorial, Quiz,
Party.
The aspects serving for
comparison includes:
A. Real purpose -
§ Dealing
with a problem or an assignment,
§ Endeavor
at a decision, consensus,
§ Improvement
of relationship,
§ Strife
for power, victory,
§ Occasion
to learn,
§ Outlet
for ideas and feelings,
§ Effort
to teach, educate,
§ Good
time.
B. Atmosphere components -
§ Rational
analysis,
§ Information,
§ Business,
§ Emotion,
§ Hierarchy
vs. equality
§ Curiosity
§ Ceremony
§ Competition
C. Rules -
§ "Catch
as you can",
§ Conducted
contents,
§ Decided
outcome,
§ Time
constrains,
§ Language
limitations
The focus of this exploration will be in
clarifying the special character and scope of dialog.