Based on “semiosis,” the relationship between a sign, an object, and a meaning.
The sign represents the object, or referent, in the mind of an interpreter.
“Interpretant” refers to a sign that serves as the representation of an object.
Signs can be verbal (words) or nonverbal.  (from C.S. Pierce, Selected Writings, 1958).

Semiotics
According to C. Morris, people are interpreters of signs.  Signs have three factors that guide interpretation:
The DESIGNATIVE aspect directs to interpreter to a particular object.
The APPRAISIVE aspect highlights object qualities, enabling evaluation.
The PRESCRIPTIVE aspect directs one to respond in specific ways.
-- from C. Morris, Signification and Significance, 1964.

Semiotics - Signs and Meanings
According to Morris, human action involves signs and meanings in three ways:

• The perception stage - the person becomes aware of a sign.
• The manipulation stage - the person interprets the sign and decides how to respond to it.
• The consummation stage - the person responds.

• Detachment - the person or system maintains autonomy (independence).
• Dominance - The person or system takes precedence over, controls, or dominates another person or system.
• Dependence - The person or system needs, is controlled by, or dominated by another person or system.

Perceptual               Designative                     Detachment

Manipulatory            Prescriptive                     Dominance

Consummatory        Appraisive                       Dependence

-- C. Morris, Signification and Significance, 1964.

Langer’s Theory of Symbols

• S. Langer asserts that symbolism underlies all human knowing and understanding.
• Prefers the concept of symbol to sign.
• “Symbols are … vehicles for the conception of objects.”-- Langer, Philosophy in a New Key, 1942.
• A symbol is “an instrument of thought,” allowing a person to think about something apart from its immediate presence.

Langer’s Theory of Symbols

• Key relationship: symbol, object, person.
• Symbols become meaningful in discourse.
• Symbols can be discursive or non-discursive.
• Discursive symbolism - language-based thought and meaning
• Non-discursive symbolism - nonverbal- based emotion and meaning; art, music, dance, etc.
• Meanings can be found in both non-discursive and discursive symbolism.

• Every sign has meaning and the potential for multiple meanings.
• Multiple meanings are socially and culturally influenced.
• Signs have both denotative and connotative meanings.

• What is the practical relevance of semiotics?
• What can we learn from semiotics that will help us communicate well?
• In what situations might semiotics theories apply?
• Are semiotics theories relevant to both verbal and nonverbal communication situations?