Introdução à Linguística - Conceito saussureano de valor linguístico

Summary

This video lesson explores the concept of linguistic value through Ferdinand de Saussure's theories. It highlights the idea that language is a system of arbitrary signs, where the value of a sign is determined by its relationship to other signs in the system. The video differentiates between 'value' and 'signification,' emphasizing that meaning is context-dependent and shifts within the system. Using a chess analogy, it illustrates how elements in a system acquire meaning only through their relationships. Ultimately, it stresses that the value of linguistic signs is dynamic, relational, and shared by speakers in a community.

Takeaways

• 😀 The concept of linguistic value is central to linguistic studies and was first formulated by Ferdinand de Saussure.
• 😀 Language is conceived as a system of signs, where the relationship between the signifier and the signified is arbitrary.
• 😀 Saussure introduced the idea that the meaning of signs cannot be fixed and always depends on the relationships between signs in a system.
• 😀 The study of linguistics is a part of semiology, which deals with the structure and functioning of signs in society.
• 😀 The value of a linguistic term is determined by its relationship with other terms in a system, making it impossible to analyze words in isolation.
• 😀 The concept of value in linguistics differs from meaning (signification) as it is determined by the surrounding context, historical, cultural, and social conditions.
• 😀 According to Saussure, the value of a word is not predetermined and can vary depending on the context, history, and the position of the speaker.
• 😀 The notion of value in language is fluid, and meaning often escapes as speakers convey their thoughts and listeners interpret based on their own subjectivity.
• 😀 The example of 'sitting in the sun' shows how meaning can change based on language, culture, and context.
• 😀 A key metaphor used is that of chess, where each piece's value is determined by its position within the system of the game, much like how linguistic signs gain meaning within their system.

Q & A

What is the main concept discussed in the video transcript?

The main concept discussed is the 'linguistic value,' which is based on Ferdinand de Saussure's theories. It explains how the meaning of words and signs is determined by their relationships within a system of language, rather than by any inherent or fixed meanings.

How does Saussure define the relationship between signifier and signified?

Saussure defines the relationship between the signifier (the sound or form of a word) and the signified (the concept or meaning) as arbitrary. This means that the connection between the two is not natural but rather based on social convention and context within the linguistic system.

What does Saussure mean by the idea that language is a system of signs?

Saussure means that language functions as a network of interconnected signs, where each sign's meaning is defined not by its intrinsic qualities but by its relationship with other signs within the system.

What is the distinction between 'value' and 'signification' in Saussure's theory?

In Saussure's theory, 'value' refers to the position of a sign within the system and how its meaning is influenced by the surrounding signs. 'Signification,' on the other hand, refers to the specific meaning or concept attached to a sign, which is not necessarily fixed but shaped by context.

Why is it not possible to understand the value of a word or sign in isolation?

It is not possible to understand the value of a word or sign in isolation because its meaning is shaped by its relationship with other signs, both before and after it in the sequence, and by the context in which it is used.

How does Saussure’s concept of linguistic value relate to the idea of linguistic change over time?

Linguistic value is fluid and context-dependent, meaning that the value and meaning of words can shift over time based on changing relationships with other signs and evolving social, cultural, and historical contexts.

How does the analogy of chess pieces help illustrate the concept of linguistic value?

In the analogy of chess pieces, Saussure compares the value of a linguistic sign to the value of a chess piece. Just as each chess piece has a specific role and value within the game (system), the meaning of a word or sign is determined by its function within the system of language, not by its material substance.

What role does context play in determining the meaning of a word or sign?

Context plays a crucial role in determining the meaning of a word or sign, as meaning is always influenced by the surrounding signs, the historical and social context, and the position of the speaker or listener in the discourse.

Why is it said that the value of a word can change without altering its signification?

The value of a word can change without altering its signification because value refers to the word’s position in the system of language, which can shift depending on its relationship with other words, while signification (the specific meaning) remains constant.

How does the work of Bakhtin and Michel Foucault expand on Saussure's theory of linguistic value?

Bakhtin and Foucault expand on Saussure's theory by emphasizing the importance of social, historical, and ideological context in shaping meaning. They introduce concepts like context of production and discourse to highlight how external factors influence the interpretation and value of signs.