Relevance Theory

Relevance theory is a proposal by Dan Sperber and Deirdre Wilson that seeks to explain the second method of communication: one that takes into account implicit inferences. It argues that the hearer/reader/audience will search for meaning in any given communication situation and having found meaning that fits their expectation of relevance, will stop processing.

Read more about Relevance Theory:  Relevance Theory Contrasted With The Conduit Metaphor, Examples, Overview, Formalization, Terminology, See Also

Famous quotes containing the words relevance and/or theory:

    Wherever the relevance of speech is at stake, matters become political by definition, for speech is what makes man a political being.
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    Freud was a hero. He descended to the “Underworld” and met there stark terrors. He carried with him his theory as a Medusa’s head which turned these terrors to stone.
    —R.D. (Ronald David)