The Notion of System in the Work of Umberto Eco: Summa, Structure, Code, Encyclopaedia and Rhizome

Abstract

System is a key word for semiotics and linguistics and is a key word also in Umberto Eco’s thought and philosophy. However, Eco always tries to find new words in order to express in a proper way his own idea of system. These new words are also new ways of thinking and rethinking the very core of his own philosophy and semiotics, which remains somehow stable during the years. Through these five words – summa, structure, code, encyclopaedia and rhizome – this paper aims at outlining an image of the evolution of Umberto Eco’s thought and philosophy.