The concept of “representation” of sign/symbolic systems
comparative analysis between V. Voloshinov and E. Cassirer
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17851/2237-2083.33.3.7-28Keywords:
representation, sign systems, Marxism and philosophy of language, Philosophy of symbolic formsAbstract
The concepts of language and sign are associated with the concept of representation. The function of representing (an object, an idea, etc.) is a property of the sign. It can be stated that a sign exists and is constituted as such to the extent that it represents something. Voloshinov (2017) dedicates himself, in the first chapters of Marxism and philosophy of language, to discussing the way in which representation occurs in sign systems. The German philosopher Ernst Cassirer (2001), when conceiving that our relationship with the object is mediated by signs, also discusses this topic of representation at length. In this sense, this article aims to analyze and compare the concept of “representation” outlined by Cassirer (2001) and the way Voloshinov (2017) deals with this concept. Similarities and differences in the two authors are pointed out, in order to understand how the representation of sign systems presented by Voloshinov is unique. It is concluded that the concept of “representation”, in Cassirerian philosophy, is broad and complex, and can be considered under different aspects: as a symbolic function; as constitution of meaning of symbolic forms; as structuring of consciousness. The concept of “representation”, in Voloshinov (2017), is more delimited. Voloshinov adopts the premise, presented by Cassirer, that our relationship with the object is mediated by signs. The Russian author concludes that sign systems are representative to the extent that they are not self-enclosed, unlike non-semiotized objects.
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