Sex, Sign and Symbol:

Abstract

This article begins with an examination of semiotics to explain the political language by focusing on three aspects of communication. First is a discussion and examination of how language and speech establish a communication system which rules citizens. Second is a demonstration of how citizen readers can play active roles in the construction of meanings. Third is an examination of how new speech practices can introduce new politics. By drawing upon U.S. feminists who employ semiotics, the article proceeds to reveal the power of this approach for understanding the sexist practices that inhibit political life. Finally, the article develops four political strategies, inspired by feminist semiotics, that promise to change political life in order to move us closer to gender justice.