The idea of participation for liberation was advocated by:
- Paulo Freire
- E.M. Rogers
- A. G. Frank
- A. A Berger
Correct Ans: (A)
Explanation:
Participation for liberation is a concept introduced by Brazilian educator and philosopher Paulo Freire. He believed that true communication must empower people, especially the oppressed, to question, reflect, and take action to transform their realities.
Freire’s work focused on creating dialogue that is inclusive and reflective. Rather than treating individuals as passive recipients of information, he saw them as active participants. In his view, communication should not be top-down. Instead, it should be rooted in mutual respect, where every voice matters equally.
His book Pedagogy of the Oppressed outlines how education and communication can serve as tools for liberation. He argued that traditional systems often silence the marginalized. To reverse this, people must participate in creating and sharing knowledge. This process enables them to understand their conditions and develop the power to change them.
In development communication, Freire’s approach reshaped how programs are designed. It shifted focus from delivering messages to encouraging local communities to engage, discuss, and lead. His ideas influenced grassroots movements, community media, and participatory journalism.
Freire’s philosophy encourages dialogue over monologue, collaboration over instruction. It promotes a model of communication where people are not objects to be changed but agents of change themselves.
In essence, participation for liberation challenges systems of control and fosters empowerment through genuine interaction. Freire’s legacy continues to shape communication strategies aimed at social justice and community transformation.
