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<p>Symbolic culture is central to human life, yet existing approaches often explain its emergence, variation, and persistence in isolation. This paper develops a theoretical account of symbolic culture as a form of mediation that integrates these dimensions within a unified framework. It argues that symbolic systems arise in response to the limits of human experience, are shaped by situated cultural and historical conditions, and become stabilized through social practices and institutions. Drawing on philosophical anthropology and cultural theory, the analysis conceptualizes symbolic mediation as a multi-level process linking meaning, context, and continuity. This perspective moves beyond fragmented explanations by showing how symbolic forms enable individuals and communities to navigate uncertainty, construct shared realities, and sustain social life over time. In doing so, the paper contributes to a deeper understanding of symbolic culture as a fundamental condition of the human experience.</p>

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Symbolic Culture as Mediation: Emergence, Differentiation, and Stabilization of Meaning

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年5月9日

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  • Gargi Roychowdhury,
  • Prashant Shukla

摘要

Symbolic culture is central to human life, yet existing approaches often explain its emergence, variation, and persistence in isolation. This paper develops a theoretical account of symbolic culture as a form of mediation that integrates these dimensions within a unified framework. It argues that symbolic systems arise in response to the limits of human experience, are shaped by situated cultural and historical conditions, and become stabilized through social practices and institutions. Drawing on philosophical anthropology and cultural theory, the analysis conceptualizes symbolic mediation as a multi-level process linking meaning, context, and continuity. This perspective moves beyond fragmented explanations by showing how symbolic forms enable individuals and communities to navigate uncertainty, construct shared realities, and sustain social life over time. In doing so, the paper contributes to a deeper understanding of symbolic culture as a fundamental condition of the human experience.