Image as a Model in the German Language: Practices of Definitional Analyses

Abstract

The paper considers the semantic structure of the concept IMAGE in the German language. The article presents the results of the definitional analysis of the lexeme “Image”. The procedure of the definitional analysis, which enabled us to identify cognitive integral elements in order to objectify the concept of IMAGE, is specified. The classification of all identified semes is given in accordance with the activity-based approach; and the dominants of the ideal cognitive model of IMAGE are singled out, which include SUBJECT, OBJECT, MOTIVES, RESULTATIVE, and PROCEDURAL-SUBSTANTIVE SIDES of the concept. The structure of the idealized cognitive model of IMAGE is constructed of the units identified at the three stages of componential analysis. It is argued that the idealized conceptual model is associated with positive characteristics of an individual or a group of people in the eyes of others. At the same time the terminals included in the slots of the cognitive model are attacked in order to discredit a political opponent or to indicate the negative consequences of the politics conducted by the members of the outgroup. The author comes to the conclusion that the speaker purposefully tries to present his political opponents as inconsistent with the idealized cognitive model of IMAGE, discrediting their positive image in the eyes of others.