Abstract
This article addresses the question of what kinds of scholarly work are most suitable for publication in communication studies, with particular attention to the needs of young scholars and those who mentor them. It defines publishable scholarship as “news” for the profession: work grounded in genuine intellectual curiosity, connected to significant conversations in the field, and willing to take calculated risks. The article distinguishes between general qualities of newsworthy research and more specific topics for future inquiry. Its proposed research agenda centers on symbolically negotiated patterns in human communication, including perspective-shifting, infinite regress, hypostatizing, cultural enactment, and learning. These topics are presented as ways to investigate large-scale patterns that shape and are shaped by symbolic action. The article also emphasizes the responsibilities that accompany knowledge about communication patterns, especially when such knowledge may affect questions of social control, power, and ethical use. It concludes by framing communication administrators as important figures in helping emerging scholars identify meaningful research subjects and develop publishable scholarship.
Recommended Citation
Brown, William R.
(1985)
"Publish What?,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 51, Article 9.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol51/iss1/9
