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A symbol, in its basic sense, is a conventional representation of a concept or quantity; i.e., an idea, object, concept, quality, etc. In more psychological and philosophical terms, all concepts are symbolic in nature, and representations for these concepts are simply token artifacts that are allegorical to (but do not directly codify) a symbolic meaning, or symbolism. Spoken language, for example, consists of distinct auditory tokens for representing symbolic concepts (words), arranged in an order which further suggests ...

Including:

• Symbol - Nature of symbols
• Symbol - Use of symbols
• Symbol - Etymology

Read more here: » Symbol: Encyclopedia - Symbol

A symbol can be a material object whose shape or origin is related, by nature or convention, to the thing it represents: for instance, the cross is the main symbol of Christianity, and the scepter is a traditional symbol of royal power. A symbol can also be a more or less conventional image (i.e. an icon), or a detail of an image, or even a pattern or color: for example, the olive branch in heraldry represents peace, the halo is a conventional symbol of sainthood in Christian imagery, tartans are symbols of Scottish clans, and the color red is often used as a symbol fo ...

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Symbol, Symbol - Nature of symbols, Symbol - Use of symbols, Symbol - Etymology

Read more here: » Symbol: Encyclopedia II - Symbol - Nature of symbols

Human beings' ability to manipulate symbols allows them to explore the relationships between ideas, things, concepts, and qualities - far beyond the explorations of which any other species on earth is capable. The discipline of semiotics studies symbols and symbol systems in general; semantics is specifically concerned with the main meaning of words or other linguistic units. Literary works are often admired for their artful use of symbolism, i.e. the use of words, phrases and situations to evoke ideas and feelings beyond their plain ...

See also:

Symbol, Symbol - Nature of symbols, Symbol - Use of symbols, Symbol - Etymology

Read more here: » Symbol: Encyclopedia II - Symbol - Use of symbols