Semiosis as a Model of Purpose-driven Representation

The paper examines a particular aspect of the way semiosis models complex anthroposemiotic activity as exemplified by the "persuasion path" implicit in any source or origin of intentional influence in human communication.Now,in theory,we should be able to account for every stage in the process of semiosis,and this ability has a bearing on the way signs are to be classified according to the nature of their immediate objects.The topic is a pretext,consequently,for exploring the stages in semiosis from the dynamic object to the sign via the immediate object in selected pictorial examples of purpose and intentionality in semiosis,since,to be understood successfully—indeed,to function at all—any such persuasive or influential activity depends upon the formal organisation of its representation.The paper thus presents one possible explanation of the role of the immediate object in cases of evident intentionality.However,in view of the fact that Peirce never developed a clear idea of semiosis,it is necessarily speculative and abductive.