PathogenicText: SemiocentricApproach

Abstract

More than a quarter ofa century ago, the concept of «pathogenic text»(PT) was introduced to media studies in Ukraine. In this article, we provide a review of academic publications that reflect on this concept from a philosophical perspective. Since 1996, the PT concept has been widely discussed in academic discourse. Therefore, it is important to summarize its usage by outlining our current interpretation and addressing how the concept differs from the more familiar term «harmful content». Can the destructive influence of the media always be attributed to deliberate and malicious actions of certain individuals? If we interpret «pathogenic»as «harmful», the simplest way to identify pathogenic text is by analysing it through the lens of law and morality. From this perspective, the problem of PT can be addressed by adhering to the laws andethical normsadopted in any given country. According to the formula «harmful is what is prohibited by law», this approach may seem convenient and straightforward. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes apparent that this approach is too one-sided. The concept of pathogenic text has been incorporated into some media studies. We support the attempt by various authors to separate a purely applied understanding of the pathotext (based, for instance, on legal restrictions and prohibitions) from its neutral philosophical interpretation. Some authors have made the concept and classification of PT part of themethodological frameworkof their research, while others have sought to elaborate on or criticise our classification.Publications by various authors on this topic encourage a reconsideration of the initial understanding ofpathogenic text, particularly in the context of semiocentrism. We also view our proposed considerations as a contribution to the philosophy and methodology of media studies.Keywords: media philosophy, pathogenic text, propaganda, noocenosis, semiocentrism.