Symbolic language/communication

Chemists communicate in a highly elaborated alfabetic [sic] and symbolic language. The chemical nomenclature is a predominant literary language. Only short names are spoken, the official, sometimes very long terms are replaced by trivial names or are uncanonically abbreviated for oral communication. The chemical nomenclature works with a distinct syntax and semantic, but is not suited for textual sentences. Structures are drawn according to specific rules. 

It is good news that cartoons, particularly the subset referred to as technomorphs, have been accepted by the chemical community as a new symbolic language. The result has been the formation of a symbolic link between molecular and ordinary objects, images that appeal to a broader audience (no background in chemistry necessary ), and a new, powerful driving force for ongoing research. 

Astrologers see Mercury as the symbol of communication, speech, writing, knowledge, the intellect, reason, wit, and learning. Its position in your birth chart determines the way you think, the speed with which you gather facts and process information, the style with which you express yourself, and your ability to tell a story (truthful or otherwise), give a speech, and use language. 

When a technical language is adopted by those who do not share the expertise of its parent community, it may actually become distorted, and this may make it even more difficult for students to keep clear what different forms of symbolism mean. So in biology lessons students are likely to meet equations representing photosynthesis and aerobic respiration (Examples 7 and 8 in Table 4.1). When just considering the substances involved, these two equations will seem to stand in the same relation as those discussed for the hydrogen/nitrogen-ammonia equilibrium ... 

While it is desirable to formulate the theories of physical sciences in terms of the most lucid and simple language, this language often turns out to be mathematics. An equation with its economy of symbols and power to avoid misinterpretation, communicates concepts and ideas more precisely and better than words, provided an agreed mathematical vocabulary exists. In the spirit of this observation, the purpose of this introductory chapter is to review the interpretation of mathematical concepts that feature in the definition of important chemical theories. It is not a substitute for mathematical studies and does not strive to achieve mathematical rigour. It is assumed that the reader is already familiar with algebra, geometry, trigonometry and calculus, but not necessarily with their use in science. 

But there was another view of the West that of the native inhabi-(10) tants of the land. Their understandings of landscapes, peoples, and resources formed both a contrast and counterpoint to those of Jefferson s travelers. One of Lewis and Clark s missions was to open diplomatic relations between the United States and the Native American nations of the West. As Jefferson told Lewis, it will now be proper (15) you should inform those through whose country you will pass. .. that henceforth we become their fathers and friends. When Euro-Americans and Native Americans met, they used ancient diplomatic protocols that included formal language, ceremonial gifts, and displays of military power. But behind these symbols and rituals there were often (20) very different ways of understanding power and authority. Such differences sometimes made communication across the cultural divide difficult and open to confusion and misunderstanding. 

Language may be defined as a structured system of arbitrary vocal sounds and sound sequences, or a system of written or printed symbols that represent vocal sounds. A language system is used in social, interpersonal communication, and rather exhaustively catalogues the objects, events, and processes in the human environment. 

Because the prescription and subsequent use of medications is shrouded in symbolism and social meaning, it is reasonable to expect that culture will exert powerful influences on pharmacological response. The clinician faces a series of obstacles when evaluating a Hispanic patient. Formulation of a diagnosis often proves extremely difficult, especially when the patient is unaccul-turated and language and other communication barriers are manifest. There are a number of adjustments psychiatrists can make, however, to maximize diagnostic accuracy and subsequent medication compliance. 

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