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Sign, Signifier and Signified in Schrödinger's box
Azeena Parveen1, Vineeth Radhakrishnan1
1School of Social Sciences and Languages, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vandalur - Kelambakkam Road, Chennai 600127, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract:
This study of the article proposes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating quantum mechanics and structuralism to elucidate the complex dynamics of signification. By paralleling the ambiguous nature of subatomic particles with the linguistic system, the study examines the arbitrary relationship between sign, signifier, and signified through quantum principles. Key concepts from quantum mechanics, such as wave-particle duality, superposition, entanglement, and observer effect, are applied to Saussure's theory of signs, revealing intriguing analogies between the two domains. The research critically examines the uncertain aspects of lingual systems, using Saussure's theory and Schrödinger's cat experiment to illuminate the complex relationships between signs, signifiers, and signifieds. This approach can enhance our understanding of language, cognition, and the human experience by shedding light on the intricate dynamics of meaning-making in human communication.•By applying quantum principles to Saussure's framework of sign, signifier, and signified, the study attempts to understand the intricate mechanisms that govern how meaning is created in human minds.•Exploring the parallels between linguistic ambiguity and quantum theory reveals the complex interplay between language, thought, and reality, and how they influence one another.•This approach not only enhances our understanding of quantum social sciences but also offers new perspectives on how language shapes our perceptions, interactions, and understanding of the world around.
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