ABSTRACT
In the third chapter, the following Problem Question is posed: ‘What is the means to meaning in intercultural communication?’
It is noted that language can be both verbal and nonverbal, and their nature is briefly outlined. Two views of language are presented: according to one view, language is conceptualized as a systems of signs that represent meaning; and, according to the other view, language is conceptualized as games, i.e., dynamic structures created by people for accomplishing various tasks. Based on these ideas, the Performativity Principle of intercultural communication is introduced.
Overall, language is presented as performance—a process of enactment of meaning. It is noted that the process of enactment of meaning is reiterative; this is done using the example of a hermeneutic circle as an interplay between distance-experiences and near-experiences. In this process, people balance the roles of actors and spectators, together creating and recreating their world. Finally, intercultural communication is discussed in terms of hospitality—being inherently open to the Other, which involves risk and vulnerability.
