Communication Theory: Racially Diverse and Inclusive Perspectives

Featuring contributed chapters from established and emerging communication theorists with varied cultural backgrounds and identities, Communication Theory: Racially Diverse and Inclusive Perspectives decenters traditional views of communication by highlighting perspectives from the global majority. The text deviates from a white-colonial-normative theoretical core to provide students with a more holistic exploration of communication theory.

The book helps readers understand how the communicative experiences of marginalized groups represent important theoretical frames necessary for a full, comprehensive view of communication. It offers innovative conceptions of communication theorizing centered in and through the perspectives of African American/Black, Latinx, Asian American, and Indigenous/First Nations people. Through the presentation of canonized theories alongside innovative, cutting-edge theories, the text challenges students to expand and enhance the ways in which they see, use, and apply communication theory.

A unique feature of the text is the inclusion of storied reflections-personal narratives that reveal scholars at various stages of their careers ruminating on their own experiences with theory. These reflections demonstrate how ethnic and racialized standpoints can inform and advance scholarship within the discipline.

Communication Theory presents an inclusive, holistic approach to communication theory and inspires continued exploration, research, and theory in the discipline. It can serve as a primary textbook as well as a companion volume to other textbooks on communication theory.

Jasmine T. Austin (Ph.D., University of Oklahoma) is an assistant professor of organizational communication in the Department of Communication Studies at Texas State University. Her research focuses on socialization efforts and the influence that communication about historically marginalized identities (e.g., race, gender, etc.) have on members' experiences and future communication. Known for being the lead organizer for the African American Communication and Culture #ScholarStrike Conference, she has published in top-tier journals, including Management Communication Quarterly, Communication Studies, and Health Communication.

Mark P. Orbe (Ph.D., Ohio University) is a professor of communication and diversity in the School of Communication at Western Michigan University, where he also is a faculty fellow in the Office of Institutional Equity. His teaching, research, and service interests focus on the inextricable relationship of culture, power, and communication as manifested in a variety of contexts.

Jeanetta D. Sims (Ph.D., University of Oklahoma) is a professor in the College of Business Department of Marketing at the University of Central Oklahoma, where she serves as dean of the Jackson College of Graduate Studies and the University College. She is accredited in public relations. Along with leadership, her research focuses on persuasion/social influence, strategic communication, and diversity. She has coached and consulted with professionals and organizations on leadership, marketing communications, and diversity.