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About the Center for Semiotics

What is semiotics?

Semiotics is the study of signs and meaning. At the Center for Semiotics, Aarhus University, this involves a broad range of disciplines – including aspects of linguistics, philosophy, psychology, neuroscience, sociology, religion, literature, the arts, the sciences and logic.

The center is an interdisciplinary powerhouse with frequent visits by international and Danish scholars who meet, share and explore ideas and research. The atmosphere is open and professional, with an international scope.

The center is renowned globally for its high educational and research standards and has been appointed an Elite Educational Institution by the Danish Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.

What is cognitive semiotics?

Cognitive Semiotics is the study of human sense-making generally; that is, not only in language, but in all the domains in which humans make meaningful experiences. Topics for semiotic research include:

  • How does perception work?
  • What are the mental processes which enable human meaning making?
  • What role do social and cultural contexts play in meaning making?
  • How is language connected with the general properties of human cognition?
  • What does art tell us about the human mind?
  • How do we set up experiments that tell us about the human mind?
  • Is scientific reasoning enabled by a particular sign use?

The Center

Research seminars and an extensive program of international conferences and symposia throughout the year create a study environment where free discussion and inventiveness are encouraged.

The Center for Semiotics is located on the university campus within walking distance of the city center with its large student population, its many restaurants and wide variety of cultural facilities.