Wittgenstein’s Language Theory & Socialization Process
Wittgenstein’s Language Theory and the Socialization Process
Wittgenstein’s Theory of Meaning
Wittgenstein’s language theory posits that logic represents the world. Therefore, logically analyzing the language of a group will reveal an image of reality (ontology). Wittgenstein demonstrated how the edge of the world, based on logic and its linguistic representation (concepts), sets the limits of knowledge.
The fundamental thesis is the theory of meaning as a figure. A proposition is a figure of reality, representing a state of things and events, which is the purpose of the proposition. The totality of propositions is language, and the totality of facts is the world.
There is a relationship between language and the world: Isomorphism, a figurative match. This implies a correspondence between physical objects and concepts. The limits of language are the limits of the world.
- Humans mentally represent objects using concepts. If we think of a particular concept, there is a proper name. If we are planning an event or series, there is a universal concept and a property.
- The names of more elaborate properties are enunciated in propositions.
Key Elements of Wittgenstein’s Theory
- The proposition is a figure of reality.
- The basis of the theory of meaning was based on statements made up of names and predicates. If a proposition does not refer to a real meaning, it is not valid.
- Names: refer to objects immediately. The meaning of a name is the object. Names are the most basic elements of language and knowledge.
- Unified and complete character of the analysis of the proposition: The expression of language has a single logical form. The proposition lacks ambiguity (meaning is primary).
There are expressions that show the reality that belong to the language of philosophy (metaphysical propositions). Scientists have established an object-meaning connection. Humans are mentally represented by the concept of reality. The sense of a proposition lies in the figurative match.
Language is imperfect; it prepares proposals that do not describe actual reality. In analyzing language, we must go beyond the bounds of these: metalanguage.
Two Phases of the Socialization Process
The socialization process can be divided into two main phases:
- Assimilation of culture through primary socialization: This is done through repetition and imitation of behavior. Behaviors are rewarded with prizes and punished with penalties.
- Internalization: We identify with others’ cultural patterns and consciously or unconsciously reproduce them. Socialization leads to social integration and social cohesion, establishing the social structure.
Agents of Socialization
Agents of socialization are agencies that contribute to the transmission of the social model.
Primary Socialization
Primary socialization involves learning and socialization in an attractive and appropriate climate. It includes the transmission of appropriate roles and behaviors, as well as pictures of the world and social models. The school prepares individuals for the world of work, and the family reinforces learning. Friendly relations also reinforce learning, as do the media, which transmit their own models of behavior.
Secondary Socialization
Secondary socialization lasts throughout an individual’s life as they adapt to social changes and their own personal changes. It is the result of the succession of experiences of the individual. There is continuous recycling. The media plays a significant role in this phase.
Tertiary Socialization
Tertiary socialization, or resocialization, occurs when individuals have been socialized with the wrong people due to immersion in a marginal world. In these cases, the individual may be re-educated.