Sign value
Encyclopedia
In sociology
or economics
, sign value is the value accorded to an object because of how it impacts the social status of the possessor, as opposed to the value derived from use for its primary purpose. For instance, a potential purchaser may value a Rolls-Royce
limousine partially because it represents a means of transportation and partially because it signifies his wealth to other members of society. The former is the primary function of the limousine (giving rise to "use value"); the latter, the sign function.
The theory of sign value was first advanced by French sociologist Jean Baudrillard
, as a counterpart to the dichotomy of exchange vs. use value recognized by Marx.
, pieces of furniture and interior decorations are labeled with a "room-enhancing value" which may be treated as a form of sign value.
Sociology
Sociology is the study of society. It is a social science—a term with which it is sometimes synonymous—which uses various methods of empirical investigation and critical analysis to develop a body of knowledge about human social activity...
or economics
Economics
Economics is the social science that analyzes the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. The term economics comes from the Ancient Greek from + , hence "rules of the house"...
, sign value is the value accorded to an object because of how it impacts the social status of the possessor, as opposed to the value derived from use for its primary purpose. For instance, a potential purchaser may value a Rolls-Royce
Rolls-Royce (car)
This a list of Rolls-Royce motor cars and includes vehicles produced by:*Rolls-Royce Limited *Rolls-Royce Motors , which was owned by Vickers between 1980 and 1998, and after that by Volkswagen...
limousine partially because it represents a means of transportation and partially because it signifies his wealth to other members of society. The former is the primary function of the limousine (giving rise to "use value"); the latter, the sign function.
The theory of sign value was first advanced by French sociologist Jean Baudrillard
Jean Baudrillard
Jean Baudrillard was a French sociologist, philosopher, cultural theorist, political commentator, and photographer. His work is frequently associated with postmodernism and post-structuralism.-Life:...
, as a counterpart to the dichotomy of exchange vs. use value recognized by Marx.
In popular culture
In The SimsThe Sims
The Sims is a strategic life-simulation computer game developed by Maxis and published by Electronic Arts. Its development was led by game designer Will Wright, also known for developing SimCity...
, pieces of furniture and interior decorations are labeled with a "room-enhancing value" which may be treated as a form of sign value.