Great saying by great authors Quote by Paul Tillich
“Symbols have one characteristic in common with signs; they point beyond themselves to something else. The red sign at the street corner points to the order to stop the movements of cars atcertain intervals. A red light and the stopping of cars have essentially no relation to eachother, but conventionally theyare united as long as the convention lasts. The same is true of letters and numbers and partly even words. They point beyond themselves to sounds and meanings. They are given this special functionby convention within a nationor by international conventions, as mathematical signs. Sometimes such signs are called symbols; but this is unfortunate because it makes the distinction between signs and symbols more difficult. Decisive is the fact that signs do not participate in the reality of that to which they point, while symbols do. Therefore, signs can be replaced for reasons of expediency or convention, while symbols cannot.”
About This Quote
Signs are arbitrary conventions that point elsewhere; symbols carry meaning that cannot be replaced without losing significance.
In simple terms: Signs are replaceable, symbols are essential meaning carriers.
Key Takeaway
Symbols embed meaning beyond mere reference.
Themes
semiotics
convention
meaning
language
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
theoretical
educational
When to use this quote
- designing a logo
- teaching language
- interpreting legal statutes
Key Concepts
distinction between sign and symbol
cultural dependence of meaning
Practical Applications
- use symbols for lasting concepts
- rely on signs for functional instructions
Questions to Reflect On
- When does a sign become a symbol?
- Can a symbol lose its meaning if conventions change?
A Different Perspective
Some signs acquire symbolic weight over time, blurring the line.