Monological

Monological refers to a form of communication or thought that involves a single speaker or a single perspective. In the context of communication, a monological act is one where a single person is speaking and there is little to no reciprocal interaction or dialogue from others. This can be seen in lectures, solo presentations, or even internal monologues where thoughts are directed inward.

In philosophy and psychology, the term can describe a perspective that is inherently one-sided or lacks consideration for other viewpoints. A monological approach to understanding a complex issue might focus solely on one interpretation or cause, neglecting alternative explanations or the influence of multiple factors. This contrasts with dialogical approaches, which emphasize the exchange of ideas and the co-creation of meaning through interaction.

The concept of monological is often used to critique forms of discourse that are perceived as authoritarian, self-contained, or unwilling to engage with dissenting opinions. It highlights a situation where knowledge or understanding is presented as complete and unquestionable by a single source, rather than being a product of ongoing discussion and refinement. While monological communication can be efficient for delivering information, it is generally less effective for fostering critical thinking or collaborative problem-solving.