Saussure's research in China

Author: Zhao Ronghui
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-07-01
Features: Saussure's theoretical doctrines hold an important position in the history of science. He is renowned as the "Father of Modern Linguistics," the "Pioneer of Structuralism," and the "Founder of Semiotics." His seminal work, Course in General Linguistics, has been studied and researched by scholars ever since its publication and has exerted a profoundly significant influence on many subsequent disciplines (particularly linguistics, philosophy, semiotics, literary studies, etc.). Saussure's relatively unknown life, his brilliant thoughts, and his distinctive impact have all fueled a strong interest in him, which has endured for over a century. As a result, "Saussure Studies" has become an enduring field, attracting the attention of scholars worldwide.
Saussure's theories have been introduced to China for over 70 years, and Chinese scholars have achieved considerable results in Saussure studies. Especially in the last decade, the number of publications has been increasing year by year, and the level of research has also been improving. However, there are still aspects that urgently need improvement. To summarize and review the existing achievements in Saussure studies in China, we have carefully selected a portion of nearly 300 papers published before the end of 2003 and compiled them into this collection. This work has been greatly supported by Commercial Press and enthusiastically embraced by the authors.
The papers included in this volume all revolve around the theme of "Saussure Studies" and explore various aspects. They reflect the main research topics and overall research standards of domestic scholars. In other words, this collection can be regarded as a monograph on Saussure studies co-authored by multiple scholars. While the viewpoints of the authors sometimes differ significantly, this precisely illustrates the vitality of scholars' thinking and their enthusiasm for debate. Among the authors, there are both distinguished senior scholars and vigorous middle-aged and young scholars, who represent the core of Saussure studies in China.
On the occasion of the centenary of Saussure's death and the centenary of the publication of Course in General Linguistics, we dedicate this book to this great scholar and commemorate his outstanding contributions to the scientific cause. We hope this collection will play a positive role in advancing Saussure studies and related disciplines in China!
To facilitate a comprehensive understanding of Saussure and the overall landscape of Saussure studies in China, we have written a lengthy review. The book uses standardized translations of foreign names, and an "Index of Foreign Names (Chinese-English)" is provided (see Appendix I). For the convenience of research and reference, we have appended an "Annual of Saussure Studies in China" (see Appendix II), which allows readers to retrieve information and trace the development of Saussure studies in China over time. Due to time and space constraints, some excellent papers could not be included in this collection, which is our greatest regret. Additionally, in terms of literature retrieval and the selection criteria, we cannot claim perfection, and omissions and imperfections are inevitable. We sincerely welcome any criticism and corrections from our readers!
The completion of this book was supported by many parties, including my family, the leadership and colleagues at the PLA University of Foreign Languages where I work, my students, the authors of the selected papers, the leadership and editors of Commercial Press (especially the chief editor, Yu Guiling), who all provided significant assistance and support. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to them all!