Critical readings in mediated communication are ______ in character.

The correct answer is Cognitive
Important Points

Critical reading in any field, including mediated communication, is a cognitive process. It involves deep comprehension, evaluation, and interpretation of the text or message.

• It's not just about understanding the content on a surface level, but also analyzing the underlying arguments, perspectives, assumptions, and biases.
• It requires active engagement, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills to decipher complex ideas, make connections, and form one's own informed understanding or opinion.

Additional Information

Emotional:

• While emotions can sometimes play a role in how we interpret and respond to mediated communication, critical reading is primarily a cognitive, not emotional, process.

Passive:

• Critical reading is an active, not passive, process. It requires effort, active engagement, and critical thinking.

Ineffectual:

• On the contrary, critical reading is very effectual (i.e., effective). It enables readers to gain a deep, nuanced understanding of the content, critically evaluate its merits and flaws, and form their own informed views.

So, critical readings in mediated communication are cognitive in character, involving active and thoughtful engagement with the content.