Symbolic system

The term symbolic system is used in the field of anthropology and sociology to refer to a system of interconnected symbolic meanings.

The sub-fields of symbolic anthropology and structural anthropology study symbolic systems. For example, in the study of kinship roles, the matrix of symbolism manifested by ritualistic behavior such as marriage, divorce, dating etc. is often referred to by this term.

For complex systems of symbols, the term is preferred to symbolism, which denotes the symbolic meaning of a single cultural phenomenon.

Related terms

 * structural anthropology
 * symbolic anthropology
 * symbolism