Map for Module 1: What is General Semantics?

Module Map: What is General Semantics?

In this first module, we'll provide a broad introduction to the field of study called General Semantics (GS). Steve is the lead instructor this week.

As depicted in the module list, this week we're going to introduce you to GS in this sequence:

PRELIMINARIES

  • Point of View Survey — We begin with a 20-question Point of View survey. The survey results and significance will be presented and discussed in Week 5.
  • Defining and Describing General Semantics — Several different viewpoints on how to briefly characterize GS.
  • Basic Understandings — A first-pass explanation, to be developed further throughout the course.

KORZYBSKI AND GENERAL SEMANTICS

  • Alfred Korzybski (1879-1950) — A short biography of the man who "wrote the book" and (perhaps unfortunately) coined the label, "General Semantics."
  • Korzybski's Quest —Three questions guided Korzybski's work.
  • Map|Territory: Foundational Premises —Three premises underlie the GS theory or methodology, each an aspect of the Map|Territory analogy.
  • Abstracting-Evaluating—Integral to General Semantics is an understanding of the neurological processes Korzybski termed abstracting (or evaluating). As we will see, while his label has not be embraced by the medical sciences, his description of the processes and their implications was on the mark.
  • Discussion Assignment — We'll ask you to share your own example that illustrates the abstracting process, worth 30 points.
  • Two Worlds —A consequence of the brain's abstracting process is the realization that we live in "two worlds." As reflected in current neuroscience understanding, our brain actively mediates, or constructs, what we experience as the "real world."
  • Language(s) as Map(s) — Some of the implications and consequences of the Map|Territory analogy relate to our language habits and bahaviors.
  • Consciousness of Abstracting — A comparison of behaviors that reflect a consciousness (or awareness) of one's abstracting and evaluating processes, vs. unawareness.

ILLUSTRATIONS AND EXAMPLES

  • A variety of demonstrations we hope will make the notions of abstracting and evaluating more meaningful, at least in terms of vision and hearing.

MODULE COMPLETION

  • Review and Reflection — A summary of key takeaways and highlights of Module 1.
  • Optional Activities — Readings, viewings, and other activities that you may find beneficial and interesting.
  • Discussion — We ask you to participate in a Discussion and share your reactions to the material presented in this module, worth 50 points.
  • Quiz — We ask you to complete a 50-point Quiz which has been structured to facilitate and confirm learning, also worth 50 points.
  • References
  • Completion Checklist —To make sure you haven't missed anything.

This module is designed to be completed in sequence. As you complete each page or activity, you'll see navigation buttons at the bottom to either return to the Previous page or advance to the Next page. You can always skip around if you prefer or if you need to review specific pages.

At the bottom of most pages, you'll see links for the Ongoing Course Discussion and Your Personal Journal. We encourage you to regularly jot down notes and thoughts in your journal and participate in the ongoing course discussion. Your Personal Journal is worth a total of 20 points.

Module Learning Objectives

After successfully completing this module, students will be able to:

  • Summarize the story of Alfred Korzybski and he came to develop the discipline of General Semantics.
  • Explain the abstracting process and its significance.
  • Explain the significance of the map|territory distinction.
  • Identify key differences between facts (or descriptions of observations) and inferences (or opinions, judgments, assumptions).
  • Explain how Korzybski's 1933 understanding of how the nervous system works has been validated by 21st-century neuroscience.
  • Demonstrate familiarity with the GS vocabulary.
  • Demonstrate self-awareness of ineffective, unproductive, or self-defeating language habits and behaviors.
  • Offer your own explanation in response to the question, "what is General Semantics about?"