On the Change of the Middle Item and Cultural Markedness

In: Chinese Semiotic Studies, Band 7, Heft 1, S. 157-167

Abstract

Abstract
In the dynamic relation of "the positive - the middle item - the alien", the middle item is pressed by both ends. The pressure from the positive on the middle item, whose intensity is related to cultural tolerance, is driven by the need to maintain its position. That from the alien on the middle item comes from the claim for the selfoverturn of the subculture as well as the pursuit by art of its own markedness. At different levels of culture, the pressure on the middle item is different. The subtle and complex tension among the three influences the developmental trend of culture