Abstract
This essay advances a theoretical argument linking liberal education to the human capacity for symbolic choice. It begins by contrasting the restrictive condition of slavery with the freedom made possible through intentional decision making, framing liberal education as a process that fosters autonomy rather than vocational preparation. The discussion traces the historical emergence of symbolic capacity as the defining feature of human communication, distinguishing symbols from signs and emphasizing the role of spoken language in enabling decentering from immediate circumstance. Through this process, individuals develop self awareness, the ability to conceptualize alternatives, and the capacity for deliberate choice. The essay outlines a developmental sequence in which speech initiates contrast, contrast supports early decentering, and spoken language ultimately enables complex symbolic thought. Liberal arts disciplines are presented as systems that expand symbolic competence by cultivating increasingly refined forms of abstraction and representation. The argument concludes that because speech and spoken language are prerequisites for symbolic development, the study of speech communication is foundational within the liberal arts and should be required for all students as preparation for informed choice across the lifespan.
Recommended Citation
Dance, Frank E. X.
(1985)
"A Matter of Choice,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 53, Article 6.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol53/iss1/6
