Animal, man, and symbolic function
Raymond Ruyer tried to define the specificity of man within the biological world, distinguishing three characteristic features: the modified role of the brain, cultural transmission or “heredity”, and the symbolic dimension of language. He argued that one had to consider the manipulation of symbols as what makes possible the manifestations of culture, and that, because of their common origin, these manifestations should be considered intricately linked.
– Denis Forest, about Ruyer and the Idea of a Symbolic Species, in Revue philosophique de la France et de l’étranger, Volume 138, Issue 1, 2013, pages 59 to 70
Student Corner
Do you have to write a scientific paper, or a graduate thesis for a master’s or doctoral degree? Do it with the support of ORCA! If you are interested in the relationship between nature and culture, we are here to help you in creating your paper. Get inspired by the topics on this site.
What do you get?
- A treasure trove of information
- Less stress during the writing of your thesis
- An interesting topic to work on
- Professional support
