Man has always faced the problem of finding the most convenient way of communicating information and identifying certain actions, events or objects. In order to facilitate many life processes, various options for transmitting messages both in time and space, and in direct contact with the carrier of this message were created. For example, sound, light or color signals have always been used to communicate danger. From childhood, a person gets used to the fact that red is a warning of danger.

Of course, verbally (that is, verbally) you can very accurately and correctly communicate something important. However, this entails a number of problems. First of all, this is a language barrier. If, due to some circumstances, you find yourself in another country or in a society of people whose language of communication you do not know, then it becomes very, very difficult to find out what is happening. You can use gestures. And if you need to communicate something at a certain distance, the situation can become completely deadlocked. The second important problem in the transmission of information has always been time. There are often situations in which seconds count. Therefore, the problem arises of finding the most convenient way to send a message, which will allow you to do it quickly. The third problem is the ease of transmission of this message. So there are three main starting points in finding a solution to the problem described above: quickly, simply and without additional complex factors (for example, a foreign language).

A person quickly and easily receives information visually. Therefore, it is most convenient to put any information in a pictorial form. At the same time, the image should be quite simple, understandable, not requiring excessive time for recognition. Such an image can become a sign. A sign can be considered a graphic embodiment of a certain semantic content. For example, the easiest way to communicate that you have received an important message is to draw a postal envelope. Signs surround us every day. These are pointer signs, pictogram signs, bookmarks, company or trademarks.

Signs-pictograms.

Company logo.

If a group of signs is required for a certain type of activity, then we are talking about creating a sign system. A sign system can be considered a group of signs united by a common purpose and style of a graphic solution. Road signs or signs on a computer monitor can be considered classic examples of sign systems.

Road signs accepted for use on the territory of the Russian Federation (partially presented).

The sign system of the virtual environment.

It should be noted that the concept of a sign system is related only to the graphic forms of signs and does not affect the area of ​​sign-information functioning of other classes of artificial systems.

A. Chapurina Sign system for learning activities. Academic work

In theory, any sign was considered from the point of view of the formal structure of its internal organization as a relation: graphic medium - semantic content. Depending on the nature of this relationship, signs are divided into three types:

Iconic signs - quite concretely conveying the image of the underlying content;

Signs-indexes - graphically abstract and displaying conventionally embedded content;

Signs-symbols - display complex deep symbolic content (graphically they can be both iconic and indexes).

The science of SEMIOTICS deals with the study of signs and sign systems.

Not every image may be familiar. First of all, it must meet the fundamental requirements. These include: autonomy, distinguishability, memorability and visual activity. Let's describe each in detail.

Autonomy is such a construction of a sign, in which the image will be independent, independent and visually isolated from the external environment and its possible influences. Autonomy implies compositional isolation of the graphic structure of the sign. The property of the autonomy of a sign ensures the constancy (constancy) of its perception, regardless of the environment in which it may be.

Distinctness allows you to distinguish a sign from other signs and does not allow it to "get lost" among other sign structures. The sign must have the individuality of the structure of the graphic structure, have distinctive features that distinguish it from a number of similar sign forms.

The memorability of a sign is determined by the clarity, clarity of the construction of its form. This is achieved due to the extreme generalization, sufficient conciseness, integrity of the composition and the optimal complexity of all its elements.

The visual activity of a sign form involves the use of an arsenal of means of formal-compositional expressiveness of building an image, which will allow influencing the sensory perception of a person. The sign should evoke an emotional reaction as to a certain signal, a call to action.

In addition to the fundamental requirements, each sign must meet the requirements that ensure its functionality. These requirements include the following:

Readability. In relation to a sign, readability can be understood as the possibility of easy reading, shape recognition. If the image is replete with small details, too complex a pattern, then this will automatically remove it from the category of signs. As mentioned above, the sign is designed to quickly and simply convey the message, the meaning inherent in it. Therefore, it should be simple enough, contrasting in graphics, which will allow the viewer to easily "read" the image.

internal scale. The concept of internal scale involves the construction of a sign structure in such a way that the form does not lose its readability when it is repeatedly reduced or enlarged. Any sign can be business card, where its possible dimensions are quite small, and on a huge billboard or in an interior, where the image can be quite large. Therefore, during the development process, the sign is specially checked for internal scale. If the details or elements of the sign are not clearly read, then a change should be made to the drawing of the image.

Manufacturability. This requirement implies such qualities of the sign that will not lose readability when applied to various surfaces. Printing on paper is a "comfortable" environment for the sign. The surface makes it easy to apply the form without losing its recognition. However, the sign can be applied to wood, leather, metal and other materials, the surface of which can be quite corrugated, which means that it can lead to the loss of some image details. Modern design paper is extremely diverse in its texture - corrugated, corrugated, with various inclusions, etc. Therefore, acceptable complexity is thought out in the graphics of the sign. Of course, it is not possible to predict all situations. But when developing a sign, the degree of possible risk should be minimized.

For each type of signs, they also apply Additional requirements. For example, some signs are built on a modular basis. Considering each specific situation, such requirements will be discussed separately.

Compliance of the sign with the listed requirements will allow it not only to comply with the concept of iconicity, but also provide it with a long life among various types of design graphics.

Test questions.

1. What is a sign?

2. What is a sign system?

3. What types of signs are divided into?

4. What science studies signs and sign systems?

5. What fundamental requirements must the sign meet?

6. What is readability in relation to a sign?

Test questions.

Test question.

The internal scale with respect to the sign is:

A. Building a sign on a grid?

B. Preservation of the readability of the sign when reducing and increasing?

Q. Changing the sign depending on the placement situation?

D. Applying the sign to different surfaces?

The manufacturability of the iconic form implies:

A. Conciseness of the structure of the sign form?

B. Readability, both in color and in black and white?

Q. Compliance with the requirements of the further technological process of printing when designing a sign?

G. Preservation of the readability of the sign when applied to various surfaces?

The visual activity of the sign form presupposes:

A. Bright colors?

B. Original graphic solution?

AT. Provoking an emotional reaction from the viewer?

D. Dynamic composition?

Practical task.

Develop a sign system for educational activities, including the following: lecture, practice, test, vacation. Signs must meet the requirements of sign, be as simple and concise as possible. Since we are talking about a system, the images must be made in the same style. Signs can be enclosed in a shape (in a circle, square, etc.) or have a free solution. Form and structure - at the choice of the author. The solution can be either black and white or in color.

The whole modern way of the world consists of many individual systems. If you have not thought about it yet, then just imagine: everything that we are used to reading, understanding and interpreting is all signs. Man came up with their special combinations to record, store and perceive information.

In order for there to be no countless number of symbols, like a variety of phenomena in this world, special structures were created. It is them that we are going to consider in this article, as well as give a vivid and understandable example of a sign system. This linguistic topic will be of interest not only to specialists. And we will begin to consider it sequentially so that all the data is perceived easily and simply.

Definition

Before considering in detail any example of a sign system, we consider it necessary to understand what kind of phenomenon it is.

So, a sign system is a kind of collection of basically the same type of signs, which has an internal structure and, to some extent, explicit laws for the formation, interpretation and use of its elements. Its main task is to provide full-fledged collective and individual communication processes.

At the same time, it is worth remembering what, in fact, a sign is - a material object that becomes a substitute (embodiment) of another object, phenomenon, property. It fixes, stores and perceives information (which we also call knowledge).

Types of sign systems

Theoretical studies of semiotics have classified the functioning structures of data transmission that exist today as follows:

natural;

verbal;

functional;

Iconic;

Conventional;

Recording systems.

We will touch on these types in more detail after we consider the next question - what is a language as a sign system. For now, let's dwell on the criteria on the basis of which they stand out.

signs

We are already a sign system, but we have only got acquainted abstractly with the definition of the term. As a very broad category, it does not include all the elements called signs. So, what signs allow it to be such?

• First, in any system, at least two characters must be combined.
• Secondly, the elements must be systematized according to a certain principle.
• Thirdly, the emergence of new elements can be carried out only according to a clearly defined principle.

The study of signs and sign systems

The issues of sign structures are dealt with by a separate science - semiotics. In essence, it is a borderline discipline between linguistics, sociology, literature, psychology, and biology.

The study in semiotics is carried out in three main directions, which are designated as branches of science:

• Syntactics. The object of study is the objective laws of sign systems, the relationship between their elements, the patterns of their combination and formation.
• Semantics. It studies the meaning, in other words, considers the relationship between the sign and its meaning.
• Pragmatics. It studies the relationship between the system and the subjects using it.

One of the separate aspects of the study - This concept is due to the fact that in any culture there is information transmitted through signs. As a rule, this applies to texts. It is noteworthy that the text of culture in the concept of this science is any carrier of information.

Language as a system of signs in semiotics

We all deal with language every day. Perhaps we have not thought about it before, but statements formed from words, syllables and letters (sounds in oral speech) is a system. Semiotics gives it its exhaustive interpretation.

Language is a sign formation that serves to store the transmission and build up of information, which has physical nature. Its functions are communication and obtaining information in the process of diverse human activity.

In turn, within the framework of the language, different sign codes are used, for example, transcription, sign language, shorthand, and others. Languages ​​in semiotics - according to the most generalized criterion - are divided into natural and artificial. Let's continue to delve into the topic of what the sign system of a language is.

Semiotics about language

As we can see, language is the closest example of a sign structure for us. In addition, in semiotics, it is also the most important of the phenomena, occupying a special place among other auxiliary systems. Language is not only a means of expressing information, but also a means of shaping human thoughts, emotions, a way of expressing will, that is, the range of functions performed is extremely wide.

At the same time, for comparison: specialized sign systems (by the way, they are usually artificial) transmit only information limited in type and quantity or recode it.

The sphere of language use is also special in comparison with specialized formations. It affects absolutely all areas of scientific and practical activity. Specialized sign structures, on the contrary, are narrowly focused.

The language is formed, develops in the process of use, obeying internal laws and external influences. Special sign systems are the result of a one-time agreement of people, they are absolutely artificial.

Natural and artificial languages

The functions of the language in comparison with other systems are much wider. We also mentioned that the main criterion for separating languages ​​classifies them into artificial and natural. Now let's look at these two types of languages ​​in a little more detail.

So, natural language is the one that appeared along with man. Its development occurs naturally, a person does not produce a conscious action on it.

About artificial languages, as you might guess, let's say that they are purposefully created by man systems for specialized purposes. The creation of artificial systems is due to the fact that in some cases it is inefficient or even impossible to use the means of natural languages.

On the question of artificial languages

We have already learned enough in the consideration of the topic: "Language as a sign system". We consider the features of artificial languages ​​to be interesting. Their classification includes such subspecies as:

Planned languages ​​are ways of international communication; have an auxiliary function; such is the well-known Esperanto, in which a lively interest flared up in the last century;

Symbolic languages ​​- mathematical signs, physical, logical, chemical;

Human-machine communication languages ​​- these include programming languages.

Semiotics as a science

The study of signs is the subject of a special science - semiotics, which studies the emergence, structure and functioning of various systems that store and transmit information. Semiotics studies natural and artificial languages, as well as the general principles that form the basis of the structure of all signs.

Science considers language in broad sense, that is, covers both natural and artificial. Natural systems are considered to be primary modeling systems. The languages ​​of culture are secondary, because through them a person socializes informationally, perceives knowledge and influences the world around him.

Secondary modeling systems are otherwise called cultural codes. - cultural code: cultural texts, with the exception of natural language. To understand these phenomena, it is worth giving examples more specifically. So, models of behavior, religious texts, beliefs, rituals, units (objects, works) of art - all these are secondary modeling systems.

Such systems are built in the image of a natural language, but are used as artificial ones: in a certain field of activity, for the exchange of specific information. Such sign systems are deliberately studied, some of them are available only in certain social groups. For comparison, let us recall that natural language is a universal property.

Typology, features, examples

Earlier in our article, we considered various issues related to a given topic - a sign system, examples of it, categories of definition. Now let's touch on their types in more detail, giving examples for clarity. They will apply not only to languages.

Natural signs are natural phenomena, certain things that can point us to other phenomena, objects, assessment. They carry information about the image they embody. They can also be called signs. For example, the natural sign of fire would be smoke. To correctly interpret them, you need to have some information.

Such that are images of things and phenomena that display. Otherwise, they can be called signs-images. They are often created artificially, purposefully giving them characteristic shape. We see good examples of signs-images in music: imitation of thunder, birdsong, wind noise, etc. Only this is already a reflection not in form, but in another criterion - material.

Functional signs are those that have a pragmatic function. What makes them signs is that a person includes them in his activity. They can serve as a detail by which you can get information about the entire mechanism. The fact that the teacher opens the class journal is a sign of the upcoming survey of those present. Other, secondary meanings of functional signs are displayed in signs - a black cat that crossed the road - to trouble, a horseshoe brings happiness.

Signal signs are intuitive: they are warning signs. We all know the meaning of traffic light colors well, for example.

Conventional signs are artificial, created by people to denote certain phenomena. With the subject of designation, they may not be at all similar. So, a red cross - means an ambulance, a zebra - a pedestrian crossing, etc.

Verbal sign systems are spoken languages. We spoke separately about language as a sign system. We gave an example of the sign system of the language above.

Symbols are compact signs pointing to an object or phenomenon, which also have a second meaning. Their task is to highlight objects in a number of similar ones. Example: legend of a geographical map, state attributes - flag, coat of arms, anthem.

Indices are compact designations of objects and phenomena. Sometimes they also have a shape similar to the designation object.

Conclusion

In our article, we touched on a very broad topic: "What is a sign system", we also gave examples, and also paid special attention to the language. We considered the classification relevant to the modern stage of development of semiotics.

Now you know what a language is like as a sign system, we also covered the functions of the language and the purposes of its use. In parallel, we considered the most general classification They are both artificial and natural. And they concluded that language is a sign system that serves to store, transmit and increase information. We hope that the linguistic-semiotic topic was interesting for you too!

Sign systems have been formed throughout the history of mankind. This was necessary not only so that the accumulated buildings could be passed down from generation to generation - according to many anthropologists, the science of signs originally originated as a means of communication between people.

What is semiotics?

Semiotics is a branch of knowledge that studies signs and sign systems. It arose at the intersection of several disciplines - psychology, biology, cybernetics, literature, and sociology. Semiotics is divided into three broad areas: syntactics, semantics, and pragmatics. Syntactics is the study of the laws by which different kinds sign systems, methods of arrangement, with the help of which various elements language. The subject of study of semantics is the meaning - the relationship between the sign itself and its meaning. Pragmatics studies the relationship between the user of language and the sign system itself. A sign is a certain material object (as well as an event or phenomenon) that is objectively used to replace another object, its properties or the relationship between objects.

Secondary simulation systems

In addition to the main classes of sign systems, there are also secondary modeling systems. Otherwise they are called "codes of culture". This category includes all types of cultural texts (excluding natural language), social activity, various models of behavior, traditions, myths, religious beliefs. Cultural codes are formed in the same way as natural language. They function on the principle of agreement between members of society. Agreements, or codes, are known to every member of the group.

Development of the psyche and mastery of the sign system

Mastering various types of sign systems is also a critical factor for the development of higher mental functions. Semiotic systems allow an individual to master social culture, historically established acceptable ways of behavior, and social experience. At the same time, self-awareness develops. Starting with elementary sensations, over time it is formed into a number of skills of self-perception, making a certain opinion about oneself, personal logic.

Encoding and decoding information

In psychology, various examples of sign systems are most often studied in the context of their correlation with cognitive processes. Much attention is paid to neurophysiological features. But often speech as a way of transmitting information, exchanging knowledge is left aside by scientists. Until now, the process of coding with the help of sign systems of visual images is a mystery for researchers. The mental image is encoded in the speaker's brain into words. In the brain of the listener, it is decoded. The transformations that take place in this case remain unexplored.

Language sign systems: examples

Currently, linguistics is a dynamically developing branch of knowledge. The linguistic method is used in many sciences - for example, in ethnography and psychoanalysis. There are six types of sign systems in total. These are natural systems, recording systems, verbal systems. Let's look at each type in more detail.

Iconic systems

Examples of iconic sign systems are architecture, ballet, music, non-verbal form of communication. They usually have a fairly strong emotional saturation, are full of figurative components that are part of the sign. The study various examples sign systems shows: a scientist must not only use objective methods, but also independently model various examples of emotions, communicative situations.

natural signs

Found in nature and in everyday life. Usually these are certain things or natural phenomena that point to other objects. Otherwise, they are also called signs-signs. An example of sign systems related to natural ones can be signs about the weather, traces of animals. A classic illustration of this semiotic system is the sign of smoke, which indicates a fire.

Functional signs

This type of signs also applies to signs-signs. However, unlike natural ones, the connection of a functional sign with the object that it denotes is due to a certain function, the activity of people. For example, a home interior within the framework of semiotics is a text that indicates the level of well-being of the owners of the house. A set of books on a bookshelf provides the viewer with information about the tastes of the owner of the library, the level of his mental and moral development. Also, actions can often act as a functional sign. For example, a classroom teacher runs his finger over a list of students in a journal. This action is also a functional sign - it indicates that someone will be called to the board soon.

Convention signs

This one is otherwise called conditional. The name "conventional" comes from the Latin conventionio - "agreement". Conventional signs serve to designate objects and phenomena of the surrounding world "by condition". They themselves, as a rule, have very little in common with what they stand for. Examples of sign systems related to conventional ones: traffic signal, indices, cartographic signs, symbols (coats of arms, emblems).

Verbal (speech) sign systems

All human languages ​​belong to this category. Each language has a historical basis (the so-called "semiotic basis"). The main feature of human languages ​​is that each of them is a polystructural and multilevel system. This system is capable of almost unlimited development. The sign system of speech is the richest means for storing, processing and further transmitting information.

Sign systems

This semiotic category includes sign systems that arise on the basis of previous groups - verbal, dance, music. Sign systems of notation are secondary to these groups. They arose with the advent of writing. Without recording systems, human cognitive evolution would be impossible.

Semiotic experiences in history

The ancient Greek scientist Plato divided all sounds into the categories of fast, huge, thin and rounded. M. V. Lomonosov was of the opinion that the frequent repetition of the letter “A” in written or oral speech contributes to the image of grandeur, depth and height. The letters "E" and "U" help to depict affection, small objects, tenderness. These views were expounded in his work A Concise Guide to Eloquence.

Researcher I. N. Gorelov conducted a curious experiment. The subjects were asked to characterize the named "mamlyn" and "zhavarug". All of the participants in the experiment considered the “mamlyna” to be a kind, meek and rounded creature. "Zhavaruga" was categorized as wild, prickly and evil.

Volapuk language

There are a huge number of languages ​​on the planet, and there are many dead languages ​​- those that have gone out of use. Despite this, there are still those who enthusiastically invent new ones. Examples of artificial sign systems are known language Esperanto, Volapuk that preceded it, Universalglot, Catholic lingua, Solresol, and many others. One of the most complex is Ithkuil, created on the basis of ancient symbols. Artificial languages ​​were created by personalities engaged in different areas. These were not always those who worked in the professions of the sign system.

One of the strangest artificial languages ​​is Volapuk. The idea for his invention first came up with a German priest named Martin Schleyer. The clergyman claimed that the idea of ​​creating an artificial language was proposed to him by the Lord himself in a dream. The purpose of creating Volapuk was to simplify communication - Schleyer tried to create a simple and universal language. He took European languages ​​as a basis - Latin, English and German. The priest tried to create words from just one syllable.

At first, the public showed little interest in this artificial language. However, a community was soon formed and began spreading the word about the new language. As a result, at the peak of its popularity, it had more than a hundred thousand speakers.

The Volapuk language seemed rather strange to many Europeans. The roots of words from different European dialects contained in it made it recognizable, but quite funny. Until today, the word "volapyuk" means nonsense, gibberish. Despite being popular until the time when the Nazis came to power in Germany.

Esperanto and other languages

However, when people talk about artificial languages, the first thing they think of is a language called Esperanto. It was created in late XIX century and flourishes to the present - its carriers are hundreds of thousands of people around the world.

Esperanto has gained popularity not by chance - it is a very simple language, which contains only 16 grammar rules. It is noteworthy that they do not have a single exception. Esperanto words contain roots from various European languages, as well as Slavic ones. It is especially clear to the Americans.

Over time, in order for the phrase "artificial languages" not to have a negative connotation, they began to be called "planned". Directly the status of languages ​​is received only by those that have a sufficient number of speakers. If only its creator and a couple of friends speak an artificial language, then it is called a "linguo project".

By the way, Esperanto, despite its widespread use, was not the first of the planned languages. The first was created by an abbess named Lingua Ignota ("unknown speech"). The abbess claimed that he was sent down to her from heaven. This language had its own script and vocabulary, in which thousands of concepts were deciphered. Artificial languages ​​were also created in the countries of the East. For example, "bala-ibalan". It was invented by Sheikh Muhieddin, using Persian, Arabic and Turkish as the basis.

Binary system

Most artificial languages ​​were created on the basis of existing ones, so the binary sign system using numbers does not apply to a means of communication. In it, as you know, information is recorded using two numbers - 0 and 1. Once there were computers with more complex system- ternary. But binary is the most convenient for digital technology. In the binary sign system, 1 and 0 denote the presence or absence of a signal.

Solresol: an unusual idea of ​​a musician

At the beginning of the nineteenth century, the musician François Sudre from France shared an unusual idea with the public: he invented an artificial language called solresol. His words, of which there were more than two and a half thousand, were recorded using notes. It's hard to believe, but the idea, which at first was just a musical intellectual game became popular. Solresol language gained fame among contemporaries, because notes are international symbols.

A separate place in the MSS is occupied by signs, even whole sign

Sign represents a material-ideal essence, with the help of which something new is known that lies beyond its external form.

sign system is considered as a set of conventional signs and rules of their relationship in a certain area of ​​human activity. The science dealing with sign properties and sign systems is semiotics, founded by Charles Sanders Pierce (1839-1914). According to the scientist, "a sign is some A, denoting some fact or object B, for some interpretive thought C".

According to American psychologists, there are about 700,000 signs. For comparison - full English dictionary contains no more than 600,000 words.

A person lives in two worlds - the world of things and the world of signs, and the whole world of signs is the first target for manipulation (Fig. 19.1). Preparation for manipulation is to create new ideas, desires, goals, and not just destroy certain ideas and ideas. The main task is to cause confusion in thoughts, to make them illogical, unrelated, accept

human beings to question the stable truths of life. And this makes a person defenseless against manipulation.

Sign relationships include:

o case that acts as a sign;

o pointing to something else;

o interpretation (interpretation).

According to C.S. Pierce, there are such types of signs:

♦ A like B: religious signs (geographic Maps, diagrams, drawings)

♦ A like (adjacent) to B: indexes (footprint, glass with a bullet hole, finger pointing at something, signs traffic);

♦ A conditionally like B: symbols(words, sentences, mathematical signs).

There are the following types of sign systems:

1.1. Primary - formed by objects, phenomena, properties of the surrounding reality.

1.2. Secondary - a reflection of external reality with the help of consciousness.

2. Artificial / natural.

3.1. Deterministic - elements interact in a strictly defined and unambiguous way.

3.2. Probabilistic - non-rigid order of elements.

4.1. One-dimensional - folded by homogeneous elements.

4.2. Multidimensional - composed of heterogeneous elements.

5.1. Dynamic - mobile.

5.2. Static - motionless.

There are five main variants of sign systems:

Level 0: Structural - sign system inherent in any matter. Passes information about its properties through the structure of an object. Unconditional.

1st level: Sensory - a sign system, originally inherent in "living" matter. Tactile, chemical, radiation, gravitational perception. An unambiguous assessment system (water temperature above 20 ° C is acceptable, a visa of 45 ° C is life-threatening), adequate perception of stimuli, a link to unconditioned reflexes (developed starting from unicellular).

2nd level: mimic - a sign system, originally characteristic of intra-group communication, allows an adequate transfer of information. It includes: facial expressions, gestures, various types of specialized signaling (smell, electrical, etc.) adopted within this group. Pretty clear.

3rd level: Verbal - sign system operating abstract concepts(words, numbers that point to an information object, but do not depict it). It is excessive, built on a system of pointers, with each pointer being built structurally (languages, mathematics).

Level 4: Ethical - a sign system that is a derivative of the first four sign systems. Allows you to transfer information about the "emotional", "figurative" coloring of the event. Its presence (development) is characteristic as a manifestation of higher nervous activity. This sign system operates with figurative concepts - models of real objects. Each model is ambiguous, close to the real object with a given accuracy, carries information about the structure of the object, about the semantics of its relationship with information environment. The information carrier for it is the lower levels (which is typical for all levels of sign systems - all of them can use other levels).

The hierarchy of sign systems is based on two principles of separation: the type of sign system and its base sign. It has the form shown in Figure 19.2.

Consider the main components of sign systems.

1. Silence (silence technique).

Silence is also information. Reflections, consciousness and subconsciousness of a person are influenced by the alternation of sound and silence with a certain rhythm, intensity (as in F. Nietzsche “great events happen in silence”).

2. The language of words.

Language is a secondary natural probabilistic multidimensional dynamic sign system.

"We are slaves of words," said K. Marx, and then F. Nietzsche literally repeated this. This conclusion has been proven by many studies as a theorem.

The primary function of the word at the dawn of mankind was suggestion, submission not through reason, but through feelings (songs, fairy tales). This hypothesis, expressed by Boris Fedorovich Porshnev (1905-1972), finds more and more confirmations. For example, a person has grief, a life mess, she seeks advice from other people who do not know her problems at all, but can console her with suggestive words: “do not be sad”, “pull yourself together”, “everything will work out”, etc. These words have a healing effect. It's the words, not the content. Suggestibility through the word plus a deep property of the psyche, which arose much earlier than the ability to think analytically. This can also be traced in the process of child development, when the main line of the child's behavior is: "Mom did not order."

"Language is the house of being. Man lives in the dwelling of language..." wrote the German philosopher Martin Heidegger (1889-1976) in his Letter on Humanism. In modern times, in the new society of the West, natural language began to be replaced by an artificial, specially created one. Words have become rational, lost their centuries-old roots, turned into an impersonal, soulless instrument. How:

Exchange Dealer - "Broker

Hitman - "Killer Head -" Leader

Frequently used word humanism can mean a share, a specific idea of ​​​​a person, with the suppression and even destruction of all those who do not fit into this theory - Indians were destroyed on the ideas of the Enlightenment; another striking example is the slave trade: by 1701-1810. 6,200,000 Africans were sold to America, and 10 times more died in the holds of ships. But in 1811-1870. All enlightened Europe cursed Russia for violating human rights - serfdom, and in parallel, "humane" Europeans brought to America and sold another 1,900,000. Africans, although the Russian sailors managed to catch and hang some slave traders for this.

Another example of the use of the language of words is the dystopian novel "1984" by George Orwell - a fantastic description of a totalitarian regime, in which "newspeak" was the main means of suppression - a language was specially invented, changing the content of familiar words. As history shows, 1985. Became for the USSR the year of the introduction of "newspeak".

In this perspective, it is worth dwelling on the question of the properties of a linguistic sign. So, it has a relatively conditional connection with real things and with the properties of these things. Sound side sign relatively conditionally related with content. Able to enter into linear relationships in the composition complex sign, as well as into linear, spatial and temporal relationships as part of the speech chain. It is connected with other signs by relations of simultaneity in the mind of a native speaker. It has stamina due to tradition, it is necessary for society. Changeable in time due to changes in the conditions of its use. The sound and content side in their change is relative - within the limits of the regularity of the language system - independent of each other. One sign of a language is necessarily related to whether it is comparable to other signs. The sign system of the language is fused with the system of consciousness and through it is connected and correlated with the system of people's social life.

The functions of linguistic signs are: distinctive, constructive and classifying. In relation to objects and elements of consciousness: nominative (name of the object), deictive (pointing to the object), expressive (expressing the state of consciousness), significative (designation of the concept), modeling (creating a sign analogue of the situation), pragmatic (influencing a person).

3. The language of numbers.

The number has many meanings, rooted in many cultures around the world. A number, like a word, is originally associated with a thing. The Pythagoreans believed that things "imitate numbers". Nicholas of Cusa said: "Where the speech of mathematics fails, the human spirit will no longer be able to understand and know anything." The world can only be understood through number. The power of persuading numbers is enormous!

The language of numbers seems to be as impassive as possible, therefore it cannot lie. The power of persuading numbers is great, it gives freedom to those who own the numbers, and makes those who "consume" them very dependent. This state of affairs means replacing qualities (values) with their quantitative surrogate (price), which will remove the problem of choice, and occupy it with the problem of calculation, which is the meaning of the totalitarian power of technocracy.

In addition, the number tends to get stuck in the brain, especially if it is associated with a mathematical formula or equation (common sense is powerless in this case).

4. Pheromones - "a diet of smells".

The idea of ​​using smells as a means of information exchange was "borrowed" from insects (smell as the main information channel about its condition).

The sign system of smells, the meaning of which is often hidden outside of consciousness, causes a significant influence on behavior (for example, perfumes containing information about the subtlest human relationships).

Words about smells act in a special mental sphere - imagination, and under the influence of words a person seems to feel this or that smell. Smell signal - "smell of blood", "smell of fried" - potentially dangerous, uncovered section of the front of our defense against MSS

5. The language of visual images.

Even more than 100 years ago, Le Bon defined: "The crowd thinks in images, and the image evoked in its imagination, in turn, causes others that have no logical connection with the first ... The crowd, with the ability to think only in images, is receptive only to images. Only images can captivate her or engender horror in her and become the engines of her actions. "

The nature of the manipulation consists in the presence of a double effect - along with the message that is openly referred to, the manipulator sends an "encoded" signal to the addressee, hoping that this signal will awaken in the mind of the addressee those images that the manipulator needs. This latent influence is based on the "implicit knowledge" possessed by the addressee, on his ability to create images in his mind that affect his feelings, thoughts and behavior.

The art of manipulation is to set the process of imagination in the right direction, but in such a way that the person does not notice the hidden effect.

A special place is occupied by visual images and eidospheric perception, certifying the powerful technologies of our millennium. In combination with text and numbers, visual images give a multiple cooperative effect, because two different types perceptions that enter into resonance and mutually "shatter" each other (semantic, "beliefs", and aesthetic, "capture"). An example of this is also the theater (in one message combined different types signs - text, sound, voices, light, plasticity of movements - and this maintains the interest and attention of a person for a long time).

6. Noise democracy.

The technology that is used for the impossible emergence of its own elite groups (intelligentsia) in the mass of the controlled - for this it is completely left without silence. After all, the elite values ​​silence very much and, of course, has the economic opportunity to organize their own life outside the "democracy of noise." Such a sound (and noise) design of the surrounding space is created that the average person practically does not have sufficient periods of silence to concentrate and think through to the end a connected opinion. This is an important condition for her defenselessness against the manipulation of consciousness.

7. Akusfera (the world of sound forms).

The acoustic sphere is the world of sound forms. It does not affect the mind, but the feelings. The perception of a word depends very much on the voice in which it is pronounced (command, affectionate, capricious): "Language is the flowering of the mouth."

M. Heidegger emphasized: "In order for being to reveal itself in its mysterious manifestation, the one who listens must freely surrender himself to the power of her audible image."

With the help of these signs, you can destroy psychological defenses, turn off common sense and prepare a person’s mind for manipulation.

In the very general view knowledge in the computer memory is represented as a certain sign system. Sign systems are studied by the science of semiotics. The basic concept of semiotics is the concept of a sign. A sign is an object or event that is capable of signifying something, i.e. point to some other object, and mean something, i.e. make some sense. For example, "Moon" denotes a specific physical object and has the meaning "natural satellite of the Earth"; the sign “ ” denotes the number 3.14, meaning “the ratio of the circumference to the diameter”.

Not all objects associated with other objects act as signs. For example, a passport, receipts or wardrobe numbers are not signs. The concepts of denotation and the concept of a sign are directly related to the concept of a sign. A denotation is an object denoted by a given sign, and a concept is a property of a denotation expressed by a sign. The concept defines its denotation. The relationship between the sign, its concept and denotation expresses the so-called semiotic triangle, or Frege's triangle (see Fig. 1)

When a sign actually interacts with its denotation and concept, a sign situation arises. Sign situations are possible in which one of the vertices of the semiotic triangle is missing (Fig. 2)

Since, according to G. Frege, a sign denotes a denotation through its concept, we will depict a semiotic triangle stretched into a chain ( 3, K, D) (Fig. 3).

Rice. 1. Semiotic triangle

Rice. 2. Sign situation

Rice. 3. Elongated semiotic triangle

Correspondences between signs, concepts and denotations are not one-to-one.

Let us note the main features of the use of signs (Fig. 4).

Signs z 1 , z 2 are called synonymous if they express the same concept. Signs z 1 ,z 2 , each with its own concept, are called denotatively identical if they denote the same denotation. Sign z is called homonymous (or polysemantic) if it can express more than one concept. Sign z is called denotatively ambiguous if, with the same concept, it can denote different denotations. Sign z autonymous if its denotation in a given sign situation is the sign itself.

From the semiotic triangle it follows that the sign has two sign functions: it denotes not only the denotation, but also its concept - the designatum of the given sign. As follows from Fig. 4, the same sign can denote different denotations. The volume of the sign is the volume of the denotation field. Important concepts that are directly related to the Frege triangle are the concepts of extension and intension.

Rice. 4. Ambiguity of the elements of the semiotic triangle

Rice. 5. Sign system

The extension of a sign defines a particular class of all its admissible denotations. If a name is a sentence, a statement (i.e., a record of some judgment), then its denotation is the true meaning of this sentence (statement, judgment), i.e. "true" or "false".

The intension of the sign determines the content of the concept and characterizes the concept. The intensional nature of a sign depends not only on its true meanings, but also on the pragmatic shades of this meaning.

A sign system (Fig. 5) is a set of signs with regular relationships between them, reflecting regular relationships between their concepts and denotations. There are three aspects in the sign system: syntactic, semantic and pragmatic.

Syntactics studies the internal structure of the sign system, the rules for constructing complex signs from simple ones. For natural languages, syntactics acts as a syntax that determines the correct construction of a sentence and a coherent text. In artificial languages, syntactics determines the correct logical construction of potentially meaningful expressions.

Semantics studies the relationship, on the one hand, between signs and their denotations, on the other hand, between signs and their concepts (meanings).

Pragmatics studies signs from the point of view of their relationship to the addressee of messages.