The Semiotics of Power

The semiotics of power refers to how symbols, signs, and language convey authority and influence in society. It examines how certain gestures, attire, or words signal status and control, shaping perceptions and relationships. For example, a judge’s robes or a political leader’s salute are powerful symbols that communicate authority without words. Understanding these signs helps explain how power is established, maintained, and challenged through cultural meanings, allowing us to see beyond surface appearances and recognize the deeper messages that legitimize or question authority within social systems.