The Semiotic Self

By Norbert Wiley

This work offers an interpretation of the nature of the self. In opposition to currently fashionable theories, Wiley argues that the self is an integral and autonomous entity. The self is interpreted as a semiotic structure and on this basis the author presents an analysis of the origins of self-identity. The book draws particularly upon two philosophical sources: the writings of Charles Sanders Peirce and George Herbert Mead. The result is a trialogical model in which the present self (I) talks to the future self (you) about the past self (me). A distinctive feature of Wiley's view is that there is a mutually-supportive relation between the self and democracy, a view which he traces through American history. Providing as it does a means of interpreting the politics of identity in relation to such issues as class, gender, ethnicity, religion or sexual orientation, this book should stimulate wide interest.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0745615031
• ISBN13: 9780745615035
• Release Date: January 1995
• Publisher: Polity
• Length: 264 Pages
• Weight: 0.86 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.0" x 0.8" x 6.0"

Customer Reviews

Highly relevant work

Essential Reading for a variety of disciplines. Even if we might not agree with certain things that he is writing, this is essential for both the sociologically minded, and serves as an excellent counterpoint for Giddens recent work, or even that of Bourdieu. This work provides a counterfoil for many of the determinisms (and forms of fundamentalism)which dominate current thinking. Sociologists, philosophers and people interested in social theory will find this a highly stimulating and provocative read. It will appeal to both fans of Damasio and people who are interested in Peirce while not necessarily counting themselves as specialists. This is written in a highly accessible and logical style, which is refreshing bearing in mind how obtuse some of the secondary philosophical writing can be.

Sound philosophical work

I found Wiley's book during my doctoral research on Mead, some years ago. It is, beyond any doubt, a sound philosophical work by one of America's leading thinkers in this field. His knowledge of the history of philosophy is impressive, his analytical creativity is awesome, and his intellectual rigour is also noteworthy. So, if you are interested in the theories of the self and American philosophical pragmatism this book is certainly worth buying.