The role of bilingualism in the development of consciousness: a theoretical aspect

Language performs instrumental functions since it serves as a means of communication, preservation of knowledge, and mutual exchange of information. It fulfills symbolic functions as well. The nature of symbolism in this case is based on the fact that language as a system combines a thing (or being) - a name (or word) - a meaning (or thought). In this sense, language is a cultural code; decoding it means revealing the peculiar thinking and social behavior of language speakers. While studying a new language, the individuals start from the logic of their native language. When they are involved in good and long communication in the second language, master language speaking and writing skills, start to think in a foreign language, these things help structure a new form of thinking and consciousness with a unique nature of speakers’ mental representation.