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The theory of the three interacting orders, the [[Symbolic]], the [[Imaginary]] and the [[Real]], first appears in detail in this paper. These orders can be conceived as different planes of existence which, though interconnected, are independent realities, each [[order]] being concerned with different functions.
=====Imaginary=====
The [[Imaginary]] [[order]] includes the field of [[phantasies]] and [[image]]s. It evolves out of the [[mirror stage]] but extends into the adult [[subject]]'s relationships with others. The prototype of the typical imaginary relationship is the infant before the [[mirror]], fascinated with its [[image]]. The [[Imaginary]] [[order]] also seems to include preverbal structures, for example, the various 'primitive' phantasies of children, psycotic and perverse patients.
=====Symbolic=====
The [[Symbolic]] [[order]] is concerned with the function of [[symbol]]s and symbolic systems. [[Language]] belongs to the [[Symbolic]] [[order]]. Is is through the symbolic order that the subject is constituted.
The Real order is the most elusive of these categories, and is linked to the dimensions of sexuality and death. It seems to be the domain outside the subject. The Real is the domain of the inexpressible, of what cannot be spoken about, for it does not belong to language. It is the order where the subject meets with inexpressible enjoyment and death.
* the elaboration of the central concepts of the '''[[signifier]]''' and the '''[[symbolic|symbolic order]]'''.
==Notes==
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