Signo Linguístico | Ferdinand de Saussure | Projeto "Introdução à Linguística"

Summary

In this video, Professor Wesley Barbosa delves into Ferdinand de Saussure's theory of the linguistic sign, explaining the dual nature of signs—signifier (sound) and signified (concept). The professor highlights the arbitrary nature of language, the social structure of language, and the evolution of linguistic signs. The video also touches on semiotics, referencing Umberto Eco's work, and examines the philosophical contributions of Nicola Abbagnano to the understanding of signs. Barbosa encourages viewers to explore the fundamental role of signs in communication and invites further engagement with the content.

Takeaways

• 😀 The linguistic sign consists of two components: the signifier (sound or acoustic image) and the signified (mental concept).
• 😀 According to Saussure, the relationship between the signifier and the signified is arbitrary and not inherently connected.
• 😀 The linguistic sign is not limited to just spoken or written words, but also includes the mental images or concepts associated with those words.
• 😀 A major principle of Saussure's theory is that the meaning of a sign is derived from its difference to other signs in the system of language.
• 😀 The immutability of the linguistic system means that the structure of language is fixed and unchangeable over time.
• 😀 The mutability of signs allows for the meanings of words to evolve, reflecting shifts in culture and society.
• 😀 The study of the linguistic sign involves both structural and semiotic perspectives, incorporating philosophical insights.
• 😀 The concept of the linguistic sign plays a crucial role in the development of semiotics, as discussed by scholars like Umberto Eco.
• 😀 Saussure's theories laid the foundation for modern linguistics, influencing fields like anthropology, philosophy, and cognitive science.
• 😀 Understanding the linguistic sign helps us explore the role of language in communication, both in the present and across different historical contexts.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video discussed by Professor Wesley Barbosa?

The main focus of the video is the concept of the linguistic sign, as presented in the famous work 'Course in General Linguistics' by Ferdinand de Saussure. Professor Barbosa delves into the concept of the linguistic sign and its key aspects in the context of linguistics.

What is the significance of the term 'linguistic sign' in the video?

The linguistic sign is central to understanding language in linguistics. It connects a concept (the signified) with an acoustic image (the signifier), both of which are inseparable in the construction of the sign.

What does Professor Barbosa say about the importance of Saussure's 'Course in General Linguistics'?

Professor Barbosa highlights Saussure's work as foundational to the field of linguistics, emphasizing how it establishes the concept of linguistic signs and sets the groundwork for understanding language as a systematic and socially imposed construct.

What does Professor Barbosa say about the relationship between language and speech?

Barbosa explains that language is a social system or structure, while speech refers to the individual realization of language. Language is systematic and socially inherited, whereas speech is more fluid and individualized.

What are the two primary components of a linguistic sign as described by Saussure?

According to Saussure, a linguistic sign consists of two components: the signifier, which is the acoustic image or the mental representation of sound, and the signified, which is the concept or mental image associated with a particular sign.

How does Saussure define the relationship between the signifier and the signified?

Saussure defines the relationship between the signifier and the signified as arbitrary and conventional. There is no inherent connection between the sound (signifier) and the concept (signified); they are linked through social convention.

What does Professor Barbosa mean by the arbitrariness of the linguistic sign?

The arbitrariness of the linguistic sign refers to the lack of a natural or motivated connection between the sound and the concept. For example, the word 'book' does not have an intrinsic link to the object it represents, and different languages may use different words to represent the same concept.

What are the key characteristics of a linguistic sign mentioned by Saussure?

Saussure identifies four key characteristics of a linguistic sign: arbitrariness, linearity, immutability, and mutability. These characteristics outline how signs are formed, structured, and evolve over time.

How does the concept of immutability relate to the linguistic system?

Immutability refers to the stability of the linguistic system, where the rules and structure of language are socially established and cannot be arbitrarily changed by individuals. This ensures consistency and comprehensibility within the system.

How does mutability work within the context of linguistic signs?

Mutability refers to the evolution of language over time. While the structure of language is stable, the signs themselves can change due to shifts in society and culture. These changes are gradual and reflect the collective nature of language.