Exploring Conceptual Parallels: Bistability and the Saussurean États de Langue.

Introduction

Understanding complex systems often involves drawing parallels between seemingly disparate concepts. In this article, we delve into the fields of dynamical systems theory and linguistic theory to explore the intriguing connections between bistability and the Saussurean paired concept of synchronic-diachronic states. Through this exploration, we uncover shared principles that shed light on the nature of stability, transitions, and memory in both mechanical and linguistic systems.

Defining Concepts

According to Saussure, a synchronic state refers to the current condition or snapshot of a language system at a particular moment in time, where the language user perceives language as a static entity, unaware of its historical development. It involves analyzing the language system without considering its evolution over time, focusing solely on the relationships between elements existing simultaneously within the language system. On the other hand, a diachronic state pertains to the historical development or evolution of language over time, involving changes, transitions, and developments that occur across different periods. Diachronic study focuses on the succession of states and the processes that bring about changes in language over time, tracing the historical trajectory of a language system from its origins to its current state (or the other way around).

Bistability, on the other hand, refers to a property of dynamical systems where the system exhibits two stable equilibrium states. A bistable system can be resting in either of these stable states, with transitions between them requiring an external stimulus or activation energy to overcome a barrier. Bistability is observed in various systems, including mechanical devices like light switches, electronic circuits, chemical reactions, and biological systems.

Exploring Conceptual Parallels

Equilibrium States: Bistability in a bistable system entails the presence of two equilibrium states. For instance, a switch can be either "on" or "off." Saussurean Dichotomy illustrates a similar duality in Saussurean linguistics, where two primary states exist—synchronic and diachronic. Synchrony denotes the current state of language, while diachrony represents its historical development.

Stability and Persistence: Bistability dictates that once a bistable system reaches a stable state, it tends to persist until external forces induce a transition. Likewise, Saussure emphasizes the stability and persistence of either synchronic or diachronic perspectives. The linguist's choice of perspective influences the focus and stability of the analysis.

Transition Mechanism: Bistability necessitates external input or force for transitions between states, such as flipping a switch. Similarly, transitions between synchronic and diachronic perspectives in linguistics involve a change in analytical focus. The linguist's choice represents a kind of "switching" between these perspectives.

Energy Barrier or Threshold: Bistability systems typically feature an energy barrier that must be overcome for transitions to occur. Similarly, the linguist's choice to transition between synchronic and diachronic perspectives may involve overcoming conceptual or methodological barriers. Each perspective requires a different set of analytical tools and approaches.

Memory Aspect: Bistable systems exhibit a form of memory, as they persist in their current state until influenced to change. Saussurean linguistics acknowledges a form of "memory" in the sense that the choice of perspective influences the interpretation of language elements based on their current or historical context.

The following quote seems to encapsulate the above statement:

The object is not given in advance of the viewpoint: far from it. Rather, one might say that it is the viewpoint adopted which creates the object. [CGL] [23]

Conclusion

While the direct application of bistability to Saussurean linguistics is metaphorical, the shared concepts of stable states, transitions, barriers, and memory help bridge the gap. In both cases, the ability to recognize and navigate between different states or perspectives is crucial for understanding the dynamic nature of systems, be they mechanical switches or the nuanced study of language. Through this comparative analysis, we gain deeper insights into the underlying principles that govern stability and change in complex systems, enriching our understanding of both mechanical and linguistic phenomena.

 Related posts from this blog:

Balancing Act: Saussure's Call for a Combined Linguistic Approach

https://derridaforlinguists.blogspot.com/2023/11/blog-post.html

 Exploring Internal Duality: Synchrony and Diachrony in the History of Linguistics

https://derridaforlinguists.blogspot.com/2024/01/blog-post_31.html

 Synchronic and Diachronic Linguistics: Geometrical Clarity and Botanical Insight

 https://derridaforlinguists.blogspot.com/2023/12/blog-post_28.html

Bibliography

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

Saussure, Ferdinand de. "Course in General Linguistics." Translated and annotated by Roy Harris. With a new introduction by Roy Harris. Bloomsbury, 2013.

Bistability, From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Optical bistability, From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

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