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October 08, 2005
Mimesis or Social Construction
A clear answer lies in the statement that precedes the question, namely that “representation refers to the use of language and images to create meaning about the world around us.” And in the process of creating or giving meaning we are being creative or constructing.
We make a myriad of choices each time we represent and/or interpret language and images. These choices are, by nature, subjective and although a measure of each choice can be said to be objective or denotative, a great deal of each is also connotative.
We don’t, of course, consciously consider and carefully weigh each and every choice we make. By the time we are fluent in a particular language or have learned to use a camera, for example, we would probably consider the choices we make about word/sign choice or camera angle as second nature or even somewhat random. Although, upon reflection, I think we’d all nonetheless agree that they’re still choices we make in relation to our perspective on life, both societal and individual. Even in settings where an attempt at mimesis is made there is still an aspect of social contructionism in how an individual perceives, captures and communicates their idea of reality, which would most likely have differed greatly from another’s.
Ultimately our relentless human pursuit of meaning is intrinsically linked to our continual giving of meaning. And since our giving of meaning implies choice and is dependent on our social context, it is subjective and constructionist.
~ Nanette
Posted by lcissavides at October 8, 2005 03:16 PM
Comments
So effeicient and thorough you are being this weekend! Your response is as always articulate, thoughtful and dead-on.
Posted by: Ellen Grabiner at October 9, 2005 07:42 AM
Nanette,
I loved your entry, especially the blurb at the end about the fact that we are always giving meaning to something. I think this is an interesting point because it is so true! Fabulous job--I really agree with each and every thing that you said!
Brenna DeCotis
Posted by: Brenna at October 10, 2005 09:25 PM