In the fields of anthropology, sociology, and psychology, symbolic system refers to a system of interconnected symbolic meanings. In particular, the field focuses on the dynamic relationships between various symbols within different task or theoretical contexts. This can be extended to anything concerning humans or computers manipulating symbols in a structured format that produces a higher layer of meaning than the physical message medium. Examples of symbolic systems include natural language, programming languages, mathematical logic, and non-verbal communication. Symbols can also be intuitively generated to represent specific meanings.
For complex systems of symbols, the term is preferred to symbolism, which denotes the symbolic meaning of a single cultural phenomenon.
Contents |
Formal research in symbolic systems combines paradigms and ideas from cognitive science, artificial intelligence, and human-computer interaction.
Stanford University's Symbolic Systems Program (SSP) is one of the leading academic programs devoted to the study of these unique symbol-based systems. The program includes world-class interdisciplinary faculty from a variety of departments, including Computer Science, Linguistics, Psychology, Philosophy, Communication, and Education. The program focuses on computers and minds: artificial and natural systems that use symbols to represent information. SSP brings together students and faculty interested in different aspects of the human-computer relationship, including:
The program was originally founded by Tom Wasow, currently the Clarence Irving Lewis Professor in Philosophy and Chair of Linguistics.