Code Uncovered

Code Uncovered

Share this post

Code Uncovered
Code Uncovered
The Semiotics of War

The Semiotics of War

Deciphering Conflict through Symbolic Narratives

Serdar Paktin's avatar
Serdar Paktin
Feb 06, 2024
∙ Paid

Share this post

Code Uncovered
Code Uncovered
The Semiotics of War
1
Share

In the complex theatre of warfare, language and symbols become potent weapons of influence and perception. Today, we venture into the semiotics of war, where the Israel-Hamas conflict becomes a striking case study, echoing the ghosts of past disputes, from Edward Bernays' "Torches of Freedom" to the First Gulf War's seagulls and elusive weapons of mass destruction (WMD)—which were not there.

Code Uncovered is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

The Israel-Hamas Conflict: Symbols of Struggle

Semiotics play a pivotal role in shaping global perceptions in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Both sides meticulously craft narratives to garner international support. Gaza's resistance front bears the emblematic kaffiyeh, symbolising defiance and unity, while Israel deploys Iron Dome imagery, projecting security and protection.

Edward Bernays' "Torches of Freedom": A Semiotic Revolution

Rewind to the 1920s, when Edward Berna…

Keep reading with a 7-day free trial

Subscribe to Code Uncovered to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.

Already a paid subscriber? Sign in
© 2025 Serdar Paktin
Privacy ∙ Terms ∙ Collection notice
Start writingGet the app
Substack is the home for great culture

Share