
In the cartoon, it showcases a lot related to the concepts about group communication in Chapter 10. The cartoon is of a business meeting where someone says, “Benson, will you stop trying to dominate the meeting,” toward someone who is holding a huge microphone. This cartoon relates closely to concepts from the chapter because it explains that effective group communication requires equal participation, active listening, and balanced leadership. In this image, Benson appears to be taking over the conversation, likely ignoring group dynamics and stifling collaboration. This highlights one of the factors mentioned in the chapter -power and power-over. When a single person controls the flow of discussion by exerting dominance, it disrupts group synergy, discourages input from others, weakens decision-making, and harms the group relationship.
Personally, I always see this happen during class debates, whereas there is always that one person who always raises their hand and speak loudly to the class, while showing an angry expression on their face. This often leads to frustration, silence from quieter members, and a less effective debate/discussion. The cartoon uses humor to show how such behavior is noticed and sometimes called out, which is necessary for maintaining group balance. Overall, the cartoon teaches how group communication requires respect and fair discussion by members of the group.