Systems of Communication
Modalities of Communication
Concerning the various modalities of communication, we need to consider the materials and means of production or encoding and the sensory
"channels" used for decoding (DeFrancis 3-4; cf. chart on p. 6).
Semiotic and Notational Systems
"Semiotic systems are systems of signs that are used for expressive and representational purposes. Each of these semiotic systems may, in turn, be represented by a notational system for representing the semiotic system" (EB 984). Music, dance, and language are examples of semiotic systems that can be represented through a notational system.
Primary and Secondary Systems of Communication
"Writing is expressed not by objects themselves but by markings on objects or on any other material" (Gelb 6). What of Morse code? Gelb addresses this question with the concept of "linguistic transfers," which refers to the complexity of symbolic mediation (e.g., in the case of Morse code, speech represents thought, writing represents speech, and Morse code represents writing).
Proceed to the next topic.
Return to "Comparing Speech and Writing."