METHODOLOGY OF SURVEY-DESIGN FOR INTER-CULTURAL SEXOLOGICAL INVESTIGATIONS

5. The inter-relation of "quanta" and semantic groups

Let us recall the basic postulates of Anokhin's theory of functional systems:

The result of activity is the primary system-forming factor.
Self-regulation is the system's general organizing principle.
Functional systems are isomorphic at different levels.
Individual systems are capable of elective mobilization and cooperation to achieve a mutual end result.
Functional systems are ordered hierarchically.
The activity of the system for achieving a particular end result is regulated by many parameters.

Let us postulate that the quantum of a dynamic set of typical behavior has an engram in the memory, which is the result of acquired experience. Without experience, there is no quantum. The chain of inter-connected engrams corresponds to the chain of quanta and these structures form the basis of behavioral patterns. Underlying typical patterns of behavior is a process that starts with a triggering stimulus that provokes one mental event, which, when concluded, induces the next. If even one of the links in the chain is not realized, then the development of the behavioral pattern ceases. Put another way, the emergence of sexual behavior is realized through a dynamic process, the basis of which is the sequential induction of a chain of engrams. The engrams are actualized under the effect of various types of stimuli, and also by the subject's memories and fantasies, and when the subject is engaged in communication or reading. The constellation of quanta corresponds to the set of semantic constructions used in acts of spoken and written language.

The semantic content of quanta varies according to the breadth of the spoken language, or more accurately, the part of spoken language actively employed by the subject. The following excerpt of dialogue, borrowed from a literary text, is an example of erotic communication from a "Parent" man, with the induction of a "Child" woman [6. c.118].

Quantum 1:

ILYICH (arranging his beard and filling his pipe) The boy needs it! It's time! A child has to know about love! You've never thought about it even once? That he's probably already masturbating? It's not a good idea in our day and age. American ballistic missiles have blocked out the woman's ┘ ! Reagan said he'd destroy the whole female population of the USSR in 5 minutes. He wants men to have hanged.

Quantum 2:

MOMMY But he's still a child! He's still a child! He's still a child! I won't let you use that word around children.

 

Diagram 2

In his mental structure, the "Parent" Ilyich (diagram 2) realizes Quanta 1 and carries out a communicative transaction (Tr. 1) directed at the structure of Mommy, the "Child." The direction of his communication is determined by the semantic contours of Quantum 1. In response, the personality structure "Child" (Mommy), generates Quantum 2, directed (Tr. 2) at the structure of "Parent" Ilyich. The direction of this communicative act is also determined by the semantic structure of Quantum 2. These communicative transactions supplement each other. The quanta differ in their emotional import. Let us note that the quanta have both emotional and cognitive content. To identify their third component we will turn to a description of the structure of the functional system.