Review of Related Studies

found to deconstruct themselves rather than to provide a stable identifiable meaning Guerin, 1999: 340. As the raise of deconstruction method, there are some terms which are commonly used in the practice of this method. They are called ‘transcendental signified’, ‘logocentrism’, ‘binary opposition’, ‘phonocentrism’, and ‘metaphysics of presence’. These terms are connected to one another. i. Transcendental Signified Transcendental signified is an external point of reference on which people may build a concept. Unlike other signified, the transcendental signified would have to be understood without being compared to other signifieds or signifiers. The meaning would originate directly by itself, not differentially or relationally, as other signifieds do. The transcendental signified would then provide the center of meaning, allowing those who believed in them to structure their ideas of reality around them. Such a center of meaning can not subject itself to structural analysis because by so doing it would lose its place as a transcendental signified to another center Bressler, 1999: 124. In more simple words, transcendental signified is the starting point of deconstruction process. Here, in order to practice this method, it is necessary for a reader to find out the ‘transcendental signified’ because it will provide the ultimate meaning, being the root of everything. This will make sure that there is “something” inside it and has its meaning concept. ii. Logocentrism According to Derrida, Western metaphysics has invented a variety of terms that function as centers: god, reason, origin, being, essence, truth, humanity, beginning, end, and self, to name a few. Each can operate as a concept that is self- sufficient and self-originate and can serve as a transcendental signified. This Western proclivity for desiring a center Derrida names logocentrism: the belief that there is an ultimate reality or center of truth that can serve as the basis for all our thoughts and actions Bressler, 1999: 124. It means that Derrida is very aware that people’s thought cannot escape from the concept of center, something that can be the basis for others. So, here he provides a term, which is called as logocentrism. It is also explained that decenter any transcendental signified will automatically allow the concept of center to operate, because by decentering the old center, it will result on the establishment of the new one. iii. Binary Opposition Because the establishing of one center of unity automatically means that another is decenter, Derrida concludes that Western metaphysics is based on a system of binary oppositions. “For each center, there exists an opposing center” God vs humankind for instance. In addition, Western metaphysics holds that in each of these binary operations or two opposing centers, one concept is superior and defines itself by its opposite or inferior center. For example, we know light because we know dark.