"Being interdisciplinary in nature, semiotics, media studies, and communication studies draw from ideas and terminology derived from other disciplines. Hence, this dictionary also encompasses basic concepts from the fields of anthropology, archeology, psychology, psychoanalysis, linguistics, philosophy, artificial intelligence, computer science, and biology. Collected here are definitions and descriptions of terms, concepts, personages, schools of thought, and historical movements that appear frequently in the literature." "The basis of each entry is a simple definition, which often includes the term's origin and important cross-references. Illustrations are provided where necessary, along with historical sketches of movements or schools of thought. The commentary on personages consists of brief statements about their contribution and relevance. Thus, the dictionary not only defines what a term means, but often delves into its history, applications, and broad implications." "This is a compact, practical guide that will be valuable to students in semiotics, media, and communication studies. Because of its interdisciplinary approach, it will also provide a wide range of scholars with a handy reference to disciplines other than but related to their own."--Jacket