This course investigates the nature of
sign, representation, and thought as conceived by CS Peirce in his effort to
cope with a world whose starting point is possibility. This is juxtaposed with
the work of EJ and JJ Gibson, in which possibility and action are framed very
differently without the need for intermediate representation. Along the way,
the course will consider the difference between Peirce's perspective, which has
influenced semiotics, and de Saussure and his influence on modern linguistics.
If there is time, we may also examine social and cultural constraints on
communication, as discussed by BL Whorf, G. Lakoff, and others.
1. Read all assigned materials and to
find additional materials relevant to the topics pursued in the course.
2.
Discuss readings in class and with other students and to contribute new ideas and opinions about these
materials.
3.
Submit a short, written piece before each class. As discussed in the first class, these written pieces
should identify and describe examples of the triadic relation involving you,
the world, and the naming process that brings you and the world together. In
the second half of the term, these pieces will be prepared collectively by each
work group (This will be explained further in due course). Submitted pieces
will be discussed selectively in class.
4.
Prepare a final project for oral and written presentation. This will be a group exercise with one oral and one
written presentation per group.
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