Let’s say that Jane and Michael have something to discuss. If Michael starts off in nonstop Chinese and Jane begins to shout over him in Icelandic, very little is going to be accomplished. It’s best for them to agree on a common language first, and then follow some rules for speaking and listening so that an exchange of information can take place. If Jane begins speaking first, Michael will wait for her to finish, and then respond to her remarks. While Michael is talking, Jane will listen. If a fire truck goes by and Jane can’t hear, she’ll ask Michael to repeat whatever she missed. If what Michael says doesn’t make sense to Jane, she’ll either ignore his misspeak or request clarification dep....