Seven Ways to Use Language

First read the earlier introductory explanation of the methods for using language. The above diagram shows the nested hierarchy: each method governs use of the primary hierarchy. The matrix below is an ordered summary of the main points made so far and appears here as a reminder and quick reference.

	Name	Effect	Correspondence	Generation of Meaning	Example
L'7	Mythic	Enabling transcendence.	Openness-L7	Submit to a potent image of a situation even if fully outside present understanding.	Greek myths.
L'6	Logical	Determining fundamentals.	Meaning-L6	Systematize unique identifiers for unique things so meaning is universally unequivocal.	Mathematical foundations.
L'5	Gestalt	Generating experiential truth.	Terms-L5	Express the human condition via imaginative use of unrelated terms.	Shakespeare's plays.
L'4	Universal	Weaving societal commonality.	Symbols-L4	Make verbal and non-verbal choices in accord with popular conventions on usage.	Daily newspapers.
L'3	Conceptual	Developing a field of inquiry.	Signs-L3	Get agreement on definitions of necessary concepts that signify a field.	Exchanges in academic disciplines.
L'2	Associative	Enjoying familiarity.	Signals-L2	Enable a subjective flow of mental links (verbal and non-verbal) that are immediately understood in the group.	Everyday conversation amongst familiars.
L'1	Concrete	Specifying procedures.	Stimuli-L1	Point to or illustrate things directly corresponding to elements of the message.	Instructions for assembling flat-pack furniture.

Does the language reveal the approach used?

Not necessarily. Reading the bible it is evident that many sections must be viewed as mythic. However, Judaic biblical exegesis looks at many ordinary sentences in ways that are reminiscent of this typology.

• Peshat: This is the "plain", "simple", "direct" or "literal" meaning:  this seems to correspond to the Universal and Concrete methods.
• Remez: This is allusive and called the allegorical or symbolic or hidden meaning: this could correspond to the Gestalt method.
• Derash: This is based on deconstruction and comparison with other texts, and is often a legalistic approach: i.e. a Logical method.
• Sod:  This is the secret or mystery or esoteric meaning, as given through inspiration or revelation: corresponds to the Mythic method.

It is natural that there is no Associative method. However, note that this exegetic categorization is Conceptual rather than Logical given that there is no attempt to extend it to cover communicating generally and across all societies.

Structure of this Section

1. Essentials of the Methods

These ways to use language in deliberate communications will be distinguished in terms of:

• Associated thought processes
• Indications for use
• Desired effects
• Criticisms and failure

2. Other Features

• Additional properties
• Dualities: Oscillating and Unfolding
• TET analysis: Quadrants and Diagonals
• Applications

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The investigation commences by clarifying the essentials of the Types in order.

• Start with the Concrete Method (L'1).

Originally posted: 25-May-2013