Dialogue has developed from more primitive forms of communication during evolution. In Mutualities in Dialogue, "dialogue" refers to face-to-face interaction between two or more individuals using a system of signs. It asks the question "What is it that we share in the course of a dialogue?," arguing that mutualities of language, culture and some interpersonal information are prerequisite for effective communication. Even in instances of noncooperation or of asymmetrical dialogue elementary commonalities must be present.

Dialogue has developed from more primitive forms of communication during evolution. In Mutualities in Dialogue, "dialogue" refers to face-to-face interaction between two or more individuals using a system of signs. It asks the question "What is it that we share in the course of a dialogue?," arguing that mutualities of language, culture and some interpersonal information are prerequisite for effective communication. Even in instances of noncooperation or of asymmetrical dialogue elementary commonalities must be present.