A Historical-Materialist Critique of Intercultural Communication Instruction

Abstract

Using an interdisciplinary approach and historical-materialist perspective, this article argues that economic systems largely influence and maintain the operation of all cultural activity. It contends that today's world has become increasingly dependent on a global economy dominated by capitalism—a profit-driven system—that has come to influence all aspects of life. As such, it ought to be a primary subject to be discussed in intercultural communication textbooks. To explicate the link between economics and communication, the author examines competition and consumerism, dominant cultural, and class-based tendencies in the U.S., as inherent characteristics of this economic system. The author will also detail the influence of these tendencies on communication, both domestically and internationally. This article argues that future textbooks should augment current interdisciplinary approaches to allow for a discussion of the link between communication and economics, thus enhancing the reader's understanding of intercultural communication. Such a socioeconomic approach to communication could help increase students’ compassion in intercultural settings, empowering them to contribute to positive global change.