ABSTRACT
Culture is so pervasive that we are generally unaware of the role it plays in defining our basic assumptions about the nature of human nature, the nature of reality, and our relationships to one another and the environment (Gudykunst, 1998; Hofstede, 1984; Schein, 1985). Language is defined by, reflects, and transmits culture. Our personal and social identities (Tajfel & Turner, 1986; Turner et al., 1987) are formed through interaction with others (Coupland & Nussbaum, 1993; Gergen, 1991; Harre, 1983; Shotter ´, 1993). These interactions most commonly occur with other individuals who are members of our culture, but sometimes they occur with those who are from outside of our culture. This chapter begins with a discussion of the role that culture plays in communication and aging, from its influences on language to our definitions of self through our social identities as they are acquired across the life span. Next, critical, overarching issues that place the research findings into context are addressed. Then, connections are drawn to the other chapters and sections of this book through a comprehensive review of the pertinent intercultural and cross-cultural literature on communication and aging. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the theoretical, research, and pragmatic concerns that arise during the examination of culture, communication, and aging.
