A symbol is an element of culture that can be expressed visually or verbally. It carries a special meaning. Understanding of a particular symbol is formed in a person as a result of interaction with society.
Instructions
Step 1
A symbol is understood as a conventional sign for members of a particular social group. Objects, processes, elements of living nature, language can be used as symbols. Most often, the content behind the symbol is abstract, a set of ideas about something. For example, a religious or state symbol. The meaning, content and meaning of symbols is revealed with the help of language. Some symbols can be understood intuitively, while others require clarification.
Step 2
The formation of symbols occurs by mutual agreement of people, therefore their meaning should be understood by cultured people. Symbols are used for communication. It is necessary to distinguish a symbol from a sign, the meaning of a symbol cannot be extracted from its physical form. It cannot be said about the physical difference between simple water and holy water, the symbol of faith.
Step 3
A symbol is a special sign through which meanings and actions are revealed to people. It determines the behavior of people, regulates it, fills it with meaning. Without symbols, there would be no rules, laws, organizations. The ability to interpret symbols depends on a particular person, their culture, good breeding. It is formed in the process of interaction with society.
Step 4
Symbols evoke both rational and sensory understanding of people. A fragment of matter of a certain color is understood as the flag of a particular state. On the other hand, the sight of this symbol can inspire pride in your country. Such social feelings are directly dependent on the values prevailing in society. Thus, symbols give importance to what they symbolize, contribute to maintaining an emotional connection with society.
Step 5
Comprehension of the meaning of a symbol occurs in the dialogue of a person with society, therefore it can be distorted. Another danger for a symbol is to be devoid of sensory significance to people, having only a rational explanation. For example, not every symbol is emotionally accepted by the human community.
Step 6
Symbols in science are a kind of logical generalization, abstraction. Any formula is a scientific symbol. The formula expresses both the result and the way to achieve it. An artistic symbol is an image that contains the meaning of an event or time through a fact, action or person. Poetry is especially rich in symbols. Symbols are contained in comparisons, allegories, metaphors. Symbols in religion are very important. Religious language is symbolic in itself, therefore different people can understand the meaning contained in it in different ways.
