Mediated... Really???

Computer Mediated Communication (CMC). It is interesting to note the CMC uses the word ''mediated" to connect computer and communication. As defined in the dictionary, to mediate is to occupy an intermediate or middle position or form a connecting link or stage between two others. Thus the proper use of this word. Interestingly, mediate also means to act between parties with a view to reconciling differences.

Why do I find this interesting you might ask... Well, I believed that computer can indeed mediate (act between parties with a view to reconcilling differences) an argument. I think that when there is a dispute between two persons, CMC may be a better alternative than confronting face to face with one another. This is because, CMC allows the person to think before the message is being conveyed and to a certain extent this can prevent one from saying things out of anger and something that they don't mean. CMC may also promote clearer understanding of what is being discussed as they can refer to what is being said previously and not side track.

Having said that, the use of the word mediated may also be ironical. More than often, CMC does not really mediate an argument but may be the cause of the argument. Unless, what is intended to be said is transmitted clearly and received clearly, misunderstanding bound to happen. In my opinion, this may be so primarily because of the lack of non-verbal behaviours as hints to how one is feeling.

So, let me conclude that CMC is like a double edge sword. And we should be careful with CMC. At the end of the day, be it CMC or face to face communication, what is important is that what to be transmitted should be received as clearly as possible... If there is even such a thing.