The "New Dominant Paradigm" in Communication: Transformation versus Adaptation

Abstract

The field of 'communication and development' research within the "dominant paradigm" has been subjected to criticism for several decades. It has been suggested that this criticism has led to significant transformations in theoretical perspective and methodological approach. The implication has been that research conducted within this tradition is finally on the road to making substantial contributions to the study of 'communication problems' as they have been defined by UNESCO and other international agencies concerned with promotion of communication strategies in Third World areas.