Notions of Representation

Notions of representation refer to the ways in which ideas, concepts, or identities are expressed, symbolized, or embodied in various forms. It involves how something abstract—like a culture, an individual, or an idea—is conveyed or stand-ins for the original in art, language, politics, or media. Representation shapes our understanding of the world by depicting who or what is included or excluded and how. It influences perceptions, power dynamics, and identity, making it a fundamental concept in fields like philosophy, sociology, and politics. Essentially, it’s about how things are shown or portrayed and what that shows about them and the society around them.