What Shall I Compare the Kingdom of God to? Bridging the Tangible and Intangible in Linguistics

 Philosophical Foundations: Using Examples of the Tangible to Explain the Intangible

Philosophers have long employed the strategy of using concrete examples to elucidate abstract concepts. This practice finds its roots in the teachings of ancient philosophers like Plato, particularly in his magnum opus, "The Republic." In this seminal work, Plato introduces the metaphor of the divided line, a powerful allegory used to elucidate his theory of knowledge and reality. The divided line serves as a bridge between the visible world and the ethereal realm of Forms or Ideas.

This division enables us to grasp the profound interplay between the tangible and the intangible, showcasing how they are intricately connected. As Plato contends, to attain understanding and knowledge of the intangible domain (the realm of Forms), one must begin their journey by observing and contemplating the visible world. It acts as a stepping stone for individuals to cultivate their reasoning and intellectual abilities, enabling them to ascend the divided line and attain a deeper comprehension of the eternal and unchanging truths within the intelligible world.

Saussure's Linguistic Canvas: A Horse Straddling Multiple Domains

 « Pris dans son tout, le langage est multiforme et hétéroclite ; à cheval sur plusieurs domaines, à la fois physique, physiologique et psychique »

Ferdinand de Saussure employed a similar approach in his examination of language. In a passage rich with metaphor, Saussure likened the complexities of language to a wild horse, a creature characterized by its multifaceted and heterogeneous nature. This "langage" encompasses various dimensions, such as the physical, physiological, psychological, individual, and social aspects of communication. Just as a wild horse roams freely across different domains, so does "langage" traverse a spectrum of human experience.

Contrasting this linguistic wild horse is "langue," symbolized as the rider. "Langue" acts as the controlling and organizing force that brings structure and coherence to the otherwise unruly nature of "langage." Similar to a rider taming and guiding the horse, "langue" provides a set of conventions and rules that standardize and regulate communication within a specific linguistic community. Thus, while "langage" embodies the complexity and diversity of language, "langue" represents the rider who tames and shapes it, demonstrating the relationship between the broader concept of "langage" and the specific, socially constructed aspect of "langue" within Saussure's linguistic framework.

The Linguistic Chef: Continuing with Analogies

To further grasp the intricate interplay between "la langue" and "le langage," let's explore the (NOT saussurean:) analogy of language as a culinary experience. In this metaphor, "langage" can be likened to a vast and diverse pantry, brimming with a myriad of linguistic ingredients, utensils, and tools. Just as the pantry contains all the raw materials necessary for creating a delicious meal, "langage" embodies the diverse elements that make up language itself.

"La langue," on the other hand, represents the skilled chef. Just as the chef enters the pantry to craft a dish, "la langue" delves into the realm of "langage" to create meaningful and coherent communication. The chef carefully selects specific ingredients, follows established recipes (linguistic conventions), and uses techniques to transform the raw materials into a well-organized and delectable meal. "La langue" serves as the principle of classification in language, arranging and organizing the elements of "langage" in accordance with established linguistic conventions, thus facilitating effective communication and understanding among speakers.

Conclusion:

Throughout the journey from Plato's philosophical insights to Saussure's linguistic comparisons and the culinary analogy, one theme remains constant: the interplay between "la langue" and "le langage" is vital in both the linguistic and philosophical realms. These analogies illustrate the profound relationship between the tangible and the intangible, emphasizing the importance of interconnectedness in communication and understanding.

 Riddle Me This:

Question 1: In the context of the text, what is the primary purpose of using tangible examples to explain intangible concepts in philosophy and linguistics?

A) To emphasize the dominance of the intangible over the tangible.

B) To demonstrate the disconnect between philosophy and linguistics.

C) To bridge the gap between the visible, tangible world and the ethereal, intangible realm.

·         Answer: C) To bridge the gap between the visible, tangible world and the ethereal, intangible realm.

Question 2: In Saussure's linguistic framework, what role does "langue" play in relation to "langage"?

A) "Langue" represents the complexity of language.

B) "Langue" serves as a culinary analogy for language.

C) "Langue" provides structure and coherence to communication within a linguistic community.

·         Answer: C) "Langue" provides structure and coherence to communication within a linguistic community.

 Bibliography

Saussure, Ferdinand de. 1916. Cours de linguistique générale. Edited by Charles Bally and Albert Sechehaye, with Albert Riedlinger. Libraire Payot.

 Plato. The Republic. Translated by Benjamin Jowett. 360 B.C. Full Text Archive.