Communication Theories provides students with a current and comprehensive discussion of influential theories in communication. The main goals of this text are to portray the strengths and weaknesses of communication theories; to help students see where these theories fit in the broad scheme of social inquiry; and generally to guide students in the evaluation and critique of theories in order to reach a more sophisticated level of understanding. Although it emphasizes theories developed by communication scholars, Communication Theories also includes work developed outside the field that have strongly influenced the work of communication scholars. The second edition has been completely updated to include new or enhanced coverage of several communication theories including: post-colonialism, critical race theory, new generation social penetration theory, and mass media reception theory.