The Evolution of Human Communication

The word ‘communication’ derives from Latin word communicare, meaning ‘to share’. Over time, the term evolved to include exhange of ideas and beliefs between a sender and a receiver through a medium. As the meaning of the word itself has changed, so did our methods of communicating with others. This writing aim to give you a brief history of communication.

Early Forms of Communication

The earliest examples of communication are cave paintings. The oldest known is found in Caceres, Spain. Early humans used these paintings to tell stories or mark events. These images featured animals and other symbols. Although these methods were essential for survival and depicted daily life, some of them were made out of aesthetic appeal. Another communication method took the form of writing; however, it did not emerge until its invention in Mesopotamia. This early writing was called cuneiform and consisted of making specific marks in wet clay with a reed implement. (World History Encyclopaedia, 'Writing') People conveyed their message through writing on various materials, from tablets to today’s smart phones. Although Orkhon Inscriptions are often considered to be the first, Çoyr Inscription is the earliest known written record of the Turkic language. Similarly, in 3,000 BCE, ancient Egyptians used hieroglyphics on their walls and tombs. They created their own system of symbols by using objects mostly from daily life.

Non-verbal Communication

Throughout history, humans have used non-verbal methods of communication. One of these is through smoke signals, using smoke to send messages over long distances. The discovery of fire made social life easier and it also had an impact on communication. One of the earliest uses of smoke signals dates back to ancient China and they used smoke signals as a warning for incoming attacks. Moreover, this method was practised by many peoples, from Native Americans to African tribes. By creating specific smoke patterns, various messages are conveyed among certain groups. In wartime, people used fire signals, as in warning beacons of Gondor, to alarm forces or to declare.

The Rise of Writing Materials

The invention of paper by the Chinese in the 2nd century BCE has left a mark on human history, revolutionizing writing. Papers was introduced to Europe in the 11th century and initially a combination of milled plant and fibres turned into wood-based papers, paving the way for conveying messages between people. In the 15th century, the invention of the printing press by German craftsman Johannes Gutenberg revolutionized paper, leading to the production of books and newspapers. Through these media, conveying the information has reached to a broad audience, though they also serve different purposes. They play a crucial part in informing their audience about current events or other topics.

The Age of New Technologies

In the 19th century, Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas A. Watson, American inventors, invented the telephone in 1876, based on the telegraph. The first telegraph was invented by Joseph Henry in 1831 and contributed to the process of reaching today’s technology. Thus, this led to personal communication over long distances. In the modern-day communication, digital technology has changed how people connect and share information. In the 20th century, the advent of the internet marked a turning point in the history of human communication. With social platforms such as Twitter and Instagram, people share their thoughts and express themselves to a wider audience, connecting any time. Despite all these innovations and practicality, the rise of digital communication has led to the decline of face-to-face interactions.

As humanity and technology evolve, new forms of communication will shape the future of communication and overall human interaction, redefining the way we connect.