Discipline Quote by Umberto Eco
“Semiotics is in principle the discipline studying everything which can be used in order to lie. If something cannot be used to tell a lie, conversely it cannot be used to tell the truth: it cannot in fact be used "to tell" at all.”
About This Quote
Source Book: A Theory of Semiotics, 1976
Semiotics examines signs and symbols, suggesting that any sign capable of deception cannot convey truth.
In simple terms: Signs that can lie cannot tell truth.
Key Takeaway
Question the trustworthiness of symbols.
Themes
communication
truth
deception
philosophy
Mood
skeptical
analytical
Type
theoretical
critical
When to use this quote
- media analysis
- political rhetoric
- advertising
- legal testimony
Key Concepts
semiotics
sign theory
truth theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we verify a sign’s reliability?
- Can a sign be both true and deceptive?
A Different Perspective
Even truthful signs may be misinterpreted or manipulated.
![“Before, the myth of photography doesn't lie was used in order to cover up tricks. If I [make a] portrait [of] you, accommodate you, illuminate you, put make up on you or use a filter, am I not manipulating reality? The only difference is that now I can do it from the computer in the postclick…” quote by Pedro Meyer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/71a/pedro-meyer-46329_abuse_before-the-myth-of-photography-doesn-t-l_152663.jpg)
