NeuroQuantology | June 2011 | Vol 9 | Issue 2 | Page 243‐254 Globus G., Inner speech and the linguistic sign: toward a quantum semiology ISSN 1303 5150 www.neuroquantology.com 243 Article Inner Speech and the Linguistic Sign: Toward a Quantum Semiology Gordon Globus* Abstract A neuroquantological account of inner speech and the linguistic sign is proposed. Inner speech, meaning, and thought are defined and located in the theoretical structure of dual mode quantum thermofield brain dynamics. Other‐action (sensory input from the environment and the body) and self‐action (self‐tuning signals generated by the brain itself) are distinguished. Being (presencing) is disclosed in the “between‐two” of dual thermofield modes making a match. The link between the signifier aspect and the signified aspect of the semiological sign is that of superposition. In communication the signifier is used to evoke its entangled signified. The extent to which communication is successful depends on similar self‐actions and attunements within linguistic communities. The discussion supports the extension of neuroquantology to semiology. Key Words: neuroquantology; quantum brain theory; Saussur; Vygotsky; semiology; inner speech; inner voice; linguistic sign; signifier; signified; thermofield brain dynamics NeuroQuantology 2011; 2: 243‐254 Introduction 1 Inner speech is a pervasive feature of human existence (Martinez-Manrique and Vicente, 2010; Vygotsky, 1986; Wiley, 2006) and despite Vygotsky’s ground-breaking efforts far less discussed than its prominence in quotidian experience deserves. The internal monologue runs on throughout our waking life, and so accustomed are we to its companionship that we barely take note of it. Inner speech seems pale compared to perceptions, emotions and urges, yet is equally persistent. Meditators well know the powerful resistence of inner speech to true silence. We may tell the inner voice to “shut up” but it always escapes in the very telling! The use of linguistic signs also profoundly characterizes our existence and is Corresponding author: Gordon Globus M.D., Address: 400 Newport Center Dr. Ste. 701 Newport Beach, CA92660 Phone: + 001 275 1633 (cell) Fax: 001 888 474 5034 e‐mail: ggglobus@uci.edu Received Jan 28, 2011. Revised March 4, 2011. Accepted March 10, 2011. at the foundation of human advance. In contrast to inner speech there is an enormous and complex literature available on semiology and semiotics, founded in Saussure (1966) and Peirce (1982; 1998) respectively. The focus here will be on Saussure’s conception of “signifier,” “signified,” and the “bond” between them. The discussion of inner speech and the linguistic sign will be confined to the classical approaches of Saussure and Vygotsky, in order to make clear the engagement with neuroquantology . The endeavor is only to open up the interface rather than systematically investigate it in the contemporary framework of linguistics. The present discussion aims at development of a neuroquantological theory of inner speech and the linguistic sign. What makes this topic especially difficult is specifying what we mean by “thought,” “meaning,” “presence,” “Being,” indeed “consciousness.” While neuroquantology takes great pains in discussing quantum brain functioning, such terms are mainly left to squabbling philosophers to figure out.