Communicating Possibilities: A Brief Introduction to the Coordinated Management of Meaning (CMM),Used

Communicating Possibilities exemplifies what it means to live ones life in conversationnoticing details in moments of communication that matter and acting into them to enhance the chances of more desirable outcomes. The approach that Wasserman and FisherYoshida articulate and demonstrate represents CMMs radical approach to communication in general and turntaking in particular. Rather than focusing on the cues that enable smooth turntaking, they argue for interjecting turns that make a difference. This is turnmaking at its best.~ Arthur Jensen, Syracuse UniversityThe treatment of CMM offered by Wasserman and FisherYoshida in Communicating Possibilities is one of, if not the, best short introductions now available. It provides a strong focus on what makes CMM a distinctive way to understand communication. Its examples are clear and I expect readily understood by students, teachers, and practitioners. I am particularly impressed by the way the authors have shown the connection between cosmopolitan communication and the other features of CMM theory. Given the present political situation that is surely an important contribution.~ Vernon Cronen, University of North Carolina; UMASS Amherst.This muchneeded volume, Communicating Possibilities, provides an illuminating introduction to a groundbreaking theory of communication. Pearce and Cronens ideas on the Coordinated Management of Meaning virtually transformed our conception of human communication. Most importantly, the ideas could be usefully applied to everyday lifein organizations, therapy, family exchanges, informal relations, and more. With new tools for reflection, new and more productive possibilities for action emerge, conflicts are reduced, collaboration encouraged, and creativity unleashed. With caring clarity, and rich illustration, Wasserman and FisherYoshida provide an invaluable introduction to this fascinating domain.~ Kenneth J. Gergen, Swarthmore University; The Taos Institute and author of An Invitation to Social ConstructionThis important book by Wasserman & FisherYoshida provides useful examples and explanations of some of the essential features of CMM, such as a systemic understanding of patterns of communication, multiple contextual constructions of meaning, and a framework for mapping out complex processes of social interaction to make changes or open new possibilities. Especially effective is the emphasis Wasserman & FisherYoshida place on sequential and reflexive unfolding of meaning and action. In light of the challenges we face in these times, such a heuristic communication model is especially needed, one that considers the social construction of ethics, different forms of awareness, and patterns of communication that we create together. This introduction to CMM provides valuable resources and tools that facilitate an ongoing conversation filled with new possibilities.~ Victoria Chen, San Francisco State UniversityCommunicating Possibilities is an inspiring book about how to use CMM in the various contexts of our livesfrom our most intimate relationships to the larger systems of which we are a part. Wasserman and FisherYoshida provide relevant and useful examples that help the reader see how to use CMM mindfully and compassionately in all aspects of our social worlds. This book is a must read for anyone interested in living intentionally and compassionately in our complex and divided world.~ Kim Pearce, Founder and President, CMM Institute for Human and Social Evolution