The Mechanism of Verbal Warfare & Polarization: Exploring Communicative Strategies in American Political Discourse

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Article

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English Language Department #4, School of International Business, MGIMO University, Moscow, Russia

Abstract

This study examines communicative strategies in American political discourse, focusing on verbal confrontation and polarization. Analyzing a corpus of 250 texts from 2016-2023 political debates, speeches, and interviews, the research employs a functional-linguistic approach combining qualitative and quantitative methods to identify key strategies and tactics used in adversarial situations. The study reveals three primary strategies: discrediting, control over conflict situations, and coercion/persuasion, with discrediting emerging as the most prevalent. Expressiveness, utilizing techniques like hyperbole and metaphor, is recognized as a universal tactic enhancing all strategies. Frequency analysis quantifies the prevalence of these strategies, highlighting the confrontational nature of contemporary American political discourse. This research contributes to understanding the dynamics of political communication, having practical value for politicians, strategists, and educators while underscoring the need for enhanced media literacy to help citizens critically analyze political discourse in an increasingly polarized environment.

Keywords

Journal of Research in Applied Linguistics

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 14 November 2024

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