ON VARIATION OF SEMANTIC COMPONENTS IN THE MEANING OF „VERNÜNFTIG“ IN GERMAN POLITICAL DISCOURSE
https://doi.org/10.24833/2410-2423-2018-2-14-54-60
Abstract
The article explains conceptual relationship between semantic components of a word and philosophical concepts as well as practical use of semic analysis aimed at interpretation of speech acts in political discourse. Lexical variety, synonyms and marks of national culture in a language reveal the cultural code as a key to interpretation. The opposition of reason and common sense as stated by I. Kant is getting a new meaning in modern context. The German expression „vernünftige Politik“ (English: “reasonable policy” or “sensible policy”) initially refers to the German word “reason” and is seen as a lexical variant in different contexts and as an instrument of political influence not only from the point of view of a successful speech act, but also in the interests of diplomatic relations. The semic analysis of synonyms to the German word „vernünftig“ shows an extention of meaning where a direct translation as “reasonable” appears to be the main meaning component. In this way it is the etymology of the German „Vernunft“, which is a noun from the verb „vernehmen“ (“to hear”, “to perceive”), that leads to the conclusion about the meaning of culture of perception for understanding values and cultural dialogue.
About the Author
Maria Stepanova
Moscow State Institute of International Relations (University)
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
76, Prospect Vernadskogo, Moscow, 119454
Dr. Maria Stepanova − PhD in Linguistics, Associate Professor at German Language Department at MGIMO. Research interests: German, media linguistics, cognitive linguistics, and genres of the texts.
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Review
For citations:
Stepanova M. ON VARIATION OF SEMANTIC COMPONENTS IN THE MEANING OF „VERNÜNFTIG“ IN GERMAN POLITICAL DISCOURSE. Linguistics & Polyglot Studies. 2018;2(14):54-60. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.24833/2410-2423-2018-2-14-54-60
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