This essay, discusses problematic integration (PI) theory, a general perspe
ctive on the nature of the dynamic relationship between communication and t
ensions among expectations and desires and considers the relevance and pote
ntial value of PI theory to questions foundational to the field of communic
ation research. The paper begins with a discussion of the main propositions
of PI theory, then considers the relationship between the theory and emerg
ing analyses of uncertainty, attending in particular to the meanings of unc
ertainty and the tensions among uncertainties, wants, and wishes.