Article

Name: The concept of LAW: a comprehensive description

Authors: Lyudmila I. Gorbunova

Irkutsk State University, Irkutsk, Russian Federation

In the section Linguistics

Abstract:

This paper addresses two primary objectives. First, it provides a comprehensive description of the concept of LAW, a vital element of the Russian conceptual sphere verbalized by a diverse and highly frequent array of linguistic units. A multidimensional analysis is crucial due to the prevalent ambiguity surrounding this intricate concept among native speakers and researchers. Second, the study aims to refine the methodology of conceptual analysis. To guarantee verifiable findings, the research integrates a quantitative methodology with semantic analysis of dictionary entries and contexts derived from the Russian National Corpus. The conceptual-logical component of LAW encompasses: “a rule governing a specific sphere of socio-political relations,” “the codification of the rule in legislative documents,” and “the necessity of compliance.” Conversely, the notion of “punishment for violation” emerges only as a peripheral element. Spatially, the law is conceptualized as a physical object or boundary, not an insurmountable obstacle. The act of operating within legal parameters receives positive assessment, with its existence deemed necessary and beneficial and its absence associated with highly reprehensible phenomena. The primary figurative component anthropomorphizes the law as a sentient being, fully developed in terms of mental, emotional, volitional, and speech characteristics, alongside a defined social status. Consequently, it is conceptualized ambivalently: it establishes rules, protects, and patronizes, yet also restricts, dictates, and punishes. Axiologically, the law is recognized as an absolute value, notwithstanding its ambivalent position on the value scale. Ultimately, the paper challenges the assumption that native Russian speakers interpret the law strictly negatively.

Keywords: the concept of “law”, Russian language, methodology of conceptual analysis, logical component of the concept, axiological component of the concept, figurative component of the concept

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