Nomenclature vs. System of Arbitrary Signs
Introduction Language, as a complex and dynamic system of communication, has sparked various theories and perspectives over the centuries. One intriguing dichotomy emerges when comparing the nomenclaturist view of language, which sees words as direct labels for pre-existing objects, with Ferdinand de Saussure's revolutionary perspective of language as a system of arbitrary signs. As we read through the student's notes, it becomes apparent that Saussure's original intentions have faced challenges due to editorial interpretations and additions. Nomenclature View: Unraveling Traditional Notions In the nomenclature view, language is perceived as a straightforward system designed for naming and labeling objects. This perspective assumes that words have a one-to-one correspondence with the objects they represent, implying a direct connection to the external world. The very nature of this viewpoint suggests a fixed relationship between words and their referents, rooted in ...