Latour - Semiotics and Science Studies

The aim of this article is to study the relationship between Bruno Latour’s theories
and semiotics. In particular the article compares Latour’s concepts to those of the
linguist A.J. Greimas. From Latour’s earliest texts in science studies onwards, semiotics
has been a basic theoretical tool. As the article will show, Latour privileges the
autonomy of language in order to avoid the ascription of substance to human and
non-human actors. It is within this autonomous field that his general associology
based on trials of strength can come into play. Furthermore, the article analyses
Latour’s theories concerning the gradual emergence of actors, circulation of references
and technical mediation. Finally, the article tries to show how Latour’s approach
reaches a limit when it comes to the study of the settings of social action. A way out
of this problem is sketched while at the same time remaining within a semiotic universe.

Key words: Bruno Latour, science studies, semiotics