Abstract

This article deals with some fundamental randomizing devices that are normally activated by the primitive cultures to produce informations and to take decisions. Starting from a analysis of the so called "artificial divination", it tries to make clear the fundamental function of the sign in relation to the duplication of reality, on the ground of which it is possible to manage cases as surprising events. The improbability of these procedures is sustained by the paradox of the necessity of what is contingent. On a more general level, the case of ordeal demonstrates how do social systems can gain a orientation in the reproduction of their operations notwithstanding their operational closure.