Semiotics vs. the word
Article Abstract:
Semiotics is gaining popularity among many American thinkers. This is particularly evident among literary scholars who see it as a tool for de-constructing traditional notions in literature. Umberto Eco, an Italian novelist, is the most well-known proponent of semiotics, having written two books to give the scientific bases for the new discipline. According to Eco, man is forever making and remaking codes, but always based on pre-existing codes. However, this 'unlimited semiosis,' the central thesis of semiotics, falls apart when pursued to its logical conclusion. It implies an infinite procession of causes, which is logically untenable.
Publication Name: Modern Age
Subject: Political science
ISSN: 0026-7457
Year: 1992
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Pitirim A. Sorokin: a forerunner to Solzhenitsyn
Article Abstract:
Sociologist Pitirim A. Sorokin was a Russian critic of American culture and a forerunner to critic Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn. Sorokin identified a pursuit of utilitarian and hedonistic values in American culture. He sensed a cultural decay in both arts and politics and diagnosed some spiritual and moral defects of American culture. However, Sorokin appears deficient in his attitudes to religious and cultural renewal. A brief biography of Sorokin is provided.
Publication Name: Modern Age
Subject: Political science
ISSN: 0026-7457
Year: 1996
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The Darwinian assault upon language
Article Abstract:
Literary criticism on the topic of language acquisition in humans in Charles Darwin's 'The Descent of Man' is presented. Particular attention is given to Darwin's explanation of the origin of language on the basis of natural selection processes.
Publication Name: Modern Age
Subject: Political science
ISSN: 0026-7457
Year: 2001
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