Cognitive and linguistic functions

Gal’perin (1992d) approaches the problem of language and thought from the standpoint of the problem of constructing speech in a foreign language. He introduces the notions of linguistic and cognitive consciousness. The latter is the product of cognition (a reflection) of things (through images) and it serves the purpose of guiding actions done with things. Sense organs and logical thinking serve as channels for this cognition. The basic characteristic of these images is veridicity, i.e., complete and clear reproduction of the features of objects in reflection. They are subject to a criterion of practice, i.e., ‘coordination between the actual results of a process and what was expected on the basis of the original ideas of things’. In contrast, linguistic consciousness is formed as a means for organising joint activity. Its purpose is not to accomplish a full reflection of reality but ‘[l]inguistic meanings are a reflection of the interests and conditions surrounding the communication of an idea (to other people)’ (p. 89).