Theory of Representation

As a theorist and an important figure in media and cultural studies, Stuart Hall’s cultural representation theory has a significant impact on the field of cultural studies. It is based on the constructionist theory and existing theories developed by Foucault, Levi Strauss, and Saussure. The theory of representation is characterized as the process by which meaning is produced and exchanged between the members of a culture through the use of linguistic signs and images. He believes that it is a complicated system and should be studied systematically since meanings are created in our minds through cause-and-effect relationships and differences.

The system of representation

Representation, in its dictionary meaning, refers to depicting or presenting alikeness. But Halls refers to another meaning and how language represents things in real life. So, there is a layer of imagination added, but it is not a direct reflection of reality but rather something more symbolic. Thus, representation has to do with how meaning is created through language. In this sense, language reflects a meaning already in nature (reflective outlook) and represents what the speaker wants to say (intentional representation).

In his work “Representation: Cultural Representations and Signifying Practices,”, Hall demonstrates the crucial links between language and culture and how shared meanings are constructed and represented within the language. Each object we perceive corresponds to a set of concepts in our minds. However, we do not think with physical objects but with concepts, which are carried in our minds. Therefore, meaning is not created through things but is produced through concepts. The theory of representation adopts a constructionist approach, as in, we construct meaning and give meaning to things.

Communication as a System

According to Hall, there are two prerequisites for communication: a conceptual map and language. A conceptual map is where meaning is created and then transferred through language. During the communication process, two moments arise when meaning is determined. The meaning in our minds finds expression in the form of language, whether physical or abstract. These forms may include basic gestures. Transforming a thought in the mind into language is referred to as "encoding." After the process of "decoding," it becomes a concept in the mind of the receiver, shaped by the sender's conceptual map.

However, there are instances when encoding doesn't match decoding due to misinterpretation by the receiver or interlocutor. In simple contexts without misunderstandings, meaning is smoothly transmitted. However, in more complex contexts, additional layers such as denotation and connotation come into play. In this sense, these layers allow for new and different interpretations and meanings to emerge. Some codes and meanings, like basic communication, are so widespread that they appear natural. Every social occasion or exchange is a new meaning creation and this interaction shapes our identity with or without knowing. A regular interaction may stabilize our existing identity, confirming things already in us. Moreover, media holds a substantial influence in shaping our identity and how we perceive life and others.