Rationalization processes between social representations and semantic block theory

Jimmy Bordarie

pp. 151-169

in: Dario Compagno (ed), Quantitative semiotic analysis, Berlin, Springer, 2018

Abstract

This chapter combines the approaches of two disciplinary fields, namely social psychology and linguistics. We are interested in social representation dynamics and particularly in rationalization processes related to the construction of social thinking. Rationalization follows a structure, making use of representational elements relative to a "normal situation", defining the object of representation and other elements related to specific situations that appear contradictory to the "normal" one. In linguistics, semantic block theory (SBT) shows that by of discursive segments can refer to one "argumentative aspect". For SBT, an aspect can be defined as a discursive pattern associating both segments with a connector, which can be normative (therefore) or transgressive (however). This study aims to highlight the role of discursive patterns in individuals' argumentations that are produced when explaining situations that appear contradictory within a representational perspective. We, therefore, attempt to understand the role of such discursive patterns in rationalization processes. This research is based on a field survey related to the representation of a public policy of urban mobility.