It is only since linguistics has become more aware of its object of study, i.e. perceives the whole extent of it, that it is evident that this science can make a contribution to a range of studies that will be of interest to almost anyone.
Ferdinand de SaussureWritten forms obscure our view of language. They are not so much a garment as a disguise.
Ferdinand de SaussureNearly all institutions, it might be said, are based on signs, but these signs do not directly evoke things.
Ferdinand de SaussureAny psychology of sign systems will be part of social psychology - that is to say, will be exclusively social; it will involve the same psychology as is applicable in the case of languages.
Ferdinand de Saussure