Template
Ability to read and write symbols. In the simplest case these may denote one's own name. In modern society, functional literacy implies a level of competence appropriate to the requirements, one's culture or group.
Metaphor
Social development is dependent upon the increasing competence of individuals and groups in interpreting and articulating sets of symbols through which the constraints of time and space may be overcome. Lack of competence inhibits the exchange of significance in ways which may hinder human and social development.
[Features]There is a wide range of symbol notations. Many of these notations may be used to convey more complex levels of significance. New languages, using the same notations or new notations, are continually developed.
[Contrast]The stress on functional literacy, as implying a minimum necessary level of competence, disguises the extent of incompetence in the comprehension of the more complex symbols required to support further social development.
[Keys]Innumeracy. Inability to interpret maps and diagrams. Range of extant notational systems.