论象征的基本特征

On Fundamental Characteristics of Symbols

文章从象征人类学的角度,对象征的群体性、主体性、多重性、时空性和传承性等基本特征做了相应的概括和分析。其中群体性是指绝大部分的象征符号都反映了群体的价值取向和心理状态;主体性是指任何象征符号在传递信息的过程中都是通过人这一主体来具体操作的;多重性是指某些重要象征符号的表现形式与意指对象之间存在着多重的组合关系;时空性是指某些特定的事物和活动只有在一定的时间和空间条件下才具有象征意义;传承性则是指象征符号在形成发展的过程中具有顽强的生命力。作者认为,认识和了解象征的基本特征,对于开展象征人类学的研究具有重要的指导作用。

From the angle of symbolic anthropology,the paper summarizes and analyzes the fundamental characteristics of symbols,including those of community,subject,multi-meaning,space/time,and continuance.The characteristic of community means that the overwhelming majority of symbols reflect the value orientation and psychology of a community.The characteristic of subject indicates that the transmission of symbol is manipulated by the subject of man.The characteristic of multi-meaning refers to the combinative relations between symbols' forms and meanings.The characteristic of space/time means that only in particular occasions can certain things and activities carry the symbolic meaning.And the characteristic of continuance means the strong vitality of symbols in its evolution.To understand the fundamental characteristics of symbols will be of guiding significance to conduct researches of symbolic anthropology.