The absence of the concept of the individual in structuralist philosophy

Abstract

This research explores the individual through a structuralist perspective, not as an independent entity, but as integrated within a broader structure. It highlights structuralism’s critique of philosophies placing the individual at the center, especially humanism, which deems the individual a fixed essence. Structuralism aimed to offer a new framework ending this individual-centric view.

The research analyzes how the individual’s role is marginalized in structuralist philosophy across fields, from linguistics, viewing language as a closed system, to sociology, literary criticism, and culture. Structural sciences prioritized holistic systems and unconscious processes over the independent individual.

This led to concepts like the “death of the individual” and “deconstruction of self,” raising questions about human nature and society. The analysis reveals how language, culture, and society significantly influence individuals. It clarifies Saussure’s signifier/signified duality in redefining language as a closed system, framing the individual not as essential, but as part of a larger system shaping their consciousness.