Concept in Definition ABC
Miscellanea / / July 04, 2021
By Javier Navarro, in Oct. 2016
Term that is divided into more than one field, from its perspective in the Architecture, up to its symbolic conception and particular use at a social and economic level.
At the level of architecture, as a support element
In architecture and in the field of building In general, a pillar is a support element that is normally used in the edification of buildings, bridges and all kinds of structures. The pillars can be classified according to the type of material and there are metallic, steel, stone or wood. From the point of view of functionality, most abutments serve as a support or support so that the building remains firm, but there are also decorative pillars, for example the caryatids. Regarding the shape they present, they can be rectangular, square, octagonal or circular.
The most well-known type of pillar in architecture is the column and in the history of architecture there have been various variants (Roman, Greek, Egyptian or Renaissance). On the other hand, a pillar is any element that serves as a support.
In a figurative sense
From a construction point of view, a pillar is an essential element, since without it the structure of the building would not be maintained. This idea is very suggestive and, consequently, it is very logical that the word pillar is used in a figurative sense.
Everything that fulfills a key function in a matter can be considered as a pillar, that is, something essential and fundamental. In this way, the best player of a team or the leader of a group are individuals that are difficult to replace and when referring to them they are considered a pillar.
Pillars of society
The concept of society implies a set of people, the relationships that are generated between them, as well as a series of organizational systems. In this sense, there are elements of a society that have a unique value and are considered to be a pillar of society itself.
There is general agreement when it comes to accepting that the family, the school, health or justice are pillars of a society. Imagine, for example, that the education system of a country does not work properly. This circumstance would have consequences of all kinds and all of them negative and, therefore, it is clear that the education It is one of the pillars of society.
Photos: Fotolia - macrovector / Gstudio
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