The word „simulacrum“ is in itself a rather ancient term from the field of philosophy and religions, which represents an image or a related connection between persons or things. In this context, „simulacrum“ usually refers to a copy or similar representation whose effect can hardly be distinguished from reality. The extremely accurate imitation then creates a reality of its own, which is perceived as the real thing. The term therefore raises questions about how we understand reality and how images, symbols or representations influence our perceptions. At the same time, it is about how things can be represented in such a way that they can create their own „reality“ that exists independently of the original reality.
The concept behind „simulacrum“ is in itself quite multifaceted and not too easy to understand, which is why the article that follows should provide a good overview of the definition, word origin, meaning as well as usage of the term „simulacrum“.
Word definition of „Simulacrum“
The word „simulacrum“ originates from the Latin language and is also written synonymously as „simulacrum“. It refers to an existing or imagined subject or object that is very similar or at least related to another subject or object. The term is derived from the Latin word „simulo“ (in German: „Abbild“ or „Spiegelbild“). While „simul“ (in German: „gleich“) refers to sameness, „acrum“ (in German: „Gegenstand“ or „Konstrukt“) describes a subject or object that is very similar to the original.
The term „simulacrum“ can have both positive and negative connotations. However, it is often equated with the deceptive appearance of originality, which it does not really represent. However, „simulacrum“ is also considered a concept of productive fantasy, in which artificial things or beings can be created in so-called „simulations.“ According to the opinions of many scientists, the concept of „simulacrum“ is considered a crucial tool of our civilization to make use of the knowledge and diversity of nature and evolution.
Origin and meaning of „Simulacrum“
The concept of „Simulacrum“ dates back to ancient times. In this it originated in philosophical considerations. The term was later coined by Jean Baudrillard, who further developed „simulacrum“ as the subtle transformation of reality into symbolic representation and the resulting shift in our perception. In today’s context, a „simulacrum“ simply represents an image, imitation, or inspiration of a person or object.
Use of the Term „Simulacrum“
The term „simulacrum“ is used in various contexts today. Nevertheless, it is a rather rare, high-level term that is slightly archaic in nature and tends to be used less in spoken everyday language. Among the most significant areas in which „simulacrum“ is used are the following:
- religious context
- art & culture
- philosophy
The following subsections are intended to give the reader a sense of the extent to which and why the term „simulacrum“ is used in the above contexts.
Religious Context
In the religious context, „simulacrum“ is often used as a synonym for „sacred images,“ „idols,“ or „mirages.“ Here, the idea of icons or rituals as symbolic representations that are meant to connect to the spiritual world becomes relevant, even though they are only material representations. A „simulacrum“ is therefore considered negative and in some religions even forbidden, or rather they are outlawed. Although the term „Simulacrum“ is used here rather synonymously and thus more rarely, as for example „idols“.
Art & Culture
In the field of art and culture, „simulacrum“ refers primarily to works of art, in the form of busts, paintings or plastic forms that are very close to reality. Here, therefore, „simulacrum“ again represents a positive term. For works of art can serve as creative simulations that convey meanings and emotions while abstracting from reality. In art and culture in particular, after all, this process is desired and appreciated accordingly.
Philosophy
In a philosophical context, the term „simulacrum“ refers primarily to the work of Baudrillard, who sees in „simulacrum“ an increasing shift from an authentic reality to a world in which simulations gain the upper hand. Today, the media, advertising, and modern technologies in particular are seen as creators of simulated realities that influence perception (often negatively) and create a new level of „hyperreality.“
Social classification of „simulacrum“
Socially, the term „Simulacrum“ can rather be assigned to (and is mostly understood by) the educated bourgeoisie. „Simulacrum“ represents here a synonymous term in a rather special field (religion, art and culture as well as philosophy), with which only a few people really come into deep contact. Thus, „Simulacrum“ is also rather not understood by most people. If at all, the term is also known to older people who have picked it up by chance somewhere in the course of their lives.
Criticisms of „Simulacrum“
Critics see in „Simulacrum“ above all an outdated concept, or rather a pessimistic view of society. Allegedly, reality would be increasingly replaced by artificial simulations, which discredits the performance of the creator. Such a criticism is also brought forth by Baudrillard, who fears that „simulacrum“ would neglect the complexity of human experience and degrade the power of individual perception. Further, „Simulacrum“ is criticized for being very superficial and not engaging with the depth of human interactions and meanings. In addition to „simulacrum,“ originality, above all, should be encouraged and valued more, they say.
Conclusion on „simulacrum“ and naming of similar terms
The bottom line is that „simulacrum“ is a representation of reality in terms of subjects or objects. However, these are so close to reality that they are indistinguishable from the original. Critics accuse the „Simulacrum“ of a low quality as well as a lack of ingenuity. In religion, therefore, „simulacrum“ tends to be regarded as something negative – in art and culture, as well as in philosophy, opinions tend to be more neutral, or rather more positive. In itself, however, the term is rather less familiar to most people.
Similar terms are for example „hyperreality“ as well as „simulation“. While „hyperreality“ describes a reality that exceeds reality and is therefore pure fiction, „simulation“ is only an image of the original reality. We encounter „hyperreality“ in computer games, for example, as well as in scientific abstractions. The „simulation“ on the other hand in flight simulators.