Thought and word in Lev S. Vygotsky

Abstract

In this essay, Augusto Ponzio takes up the seventh chapter of Lev Vygotsky's 'Thought and Language', published in 1934, in which the Belarusian author defends the thesis that thought is realized in language. In taking up this widely known vygotskian approach, the Italian philosopher focuses on the complexity of the relations implied in it, alluding to translation specificities and acknowledging points of convergence between Vygotsky’s and Bakhtin’s approaches, with particular reference to the discussion of underlying implications. The essay resumes important aspects of the historical context of the Belarusian’s thought, mentioning supporting axes of his work and highlighting the functions of language under Vygotskian perspective, as well as the fruitfulness of this approach for educational purposes.