New communication model based on Kalama Sutta theory developed

Disna MUDALIGE

A new communication model has been developed by Colombo University Journalism Unit Head Prof Ajantha Hapuarachchi based on the theory of Kalama Sutta in Anguttra Nikaya in the Thripitaka.

This communication model named "Communication Model of Epistemology Theory" becomes the first oriental communication model in the world.

It was presented at the 21st Annual Conference of Asian Media Information and Communication Centre (AMIC) held in Malaysia from July 11 to 14. The conference was attended by 300 delegates from about 11 countries. Speaking to the Daily News Prof Hapuarachchi said that the new model is entirely based on the Buddhist Philosophy, and it explains how one can grasp a message by scrutinizing it epistemologically. The ultimate consequence or result is the acceptance or the rejection after examining it critically.

"Over the years, communication models and theories have been developed to explain the process of communication. They range from the very simple stage to a very complex stage. The first model of communication theory was based on Aristotle's teaching. After Aristotle, models and theories of communication came into the syllabus by 1940s" she explained. She observed that this theory, which explains how to grasp a message properly, originated during the period of Buddha who lived in the sixth century, even before Aristotle.

"When we delve deeply into the Buddhist philosophy, we can see that the first features of a theory in communication came along with the Buddha's teaching and preaching, before all the other theories which are now widely used came into existence" she noted.

She said that attention is being paid to include this new model to school curricula in the future.