Ideology, productive powers and signification processes: the word selfie as an ideological sign

Abstract

Based on the assumption that the foundations of the linguistic theory of Bakhtin Circle (which results from the combination of Volochínov, Medviédev and Bakhtin works) are constructed in dialogue with theoretical traditions among which Marxism plays an important role, this paper discusses aspects related to the way the understanding of this group about the status of relations between infrastructure and superstructure is linked to the concept of ideological sign. Considering that and using mainly the notions of reflex and refraction, the paper focuses on the word selfie, trying to analyze it as an sign in which are condensed ideas, meanings and values associated with reorganization processes of the productive forces in the contemporary world and, in this line of reasoning, the paper proposes the conclusion that this word, illustrating exemplary propositions of the Circle about the linkages between the socio-economic life and the prevailing ideas in society, can be seen as a signic territory in which fundamental features of current society are reflected and refracted.