INTRODUCTION
Method of the study
The method used in this research is Fairclough‟s CDA dialectical-relational approach is to analyze for this study.
Scope of the study
This analysis focuses exclusively on the verbal elements of Donald Trump's speech and the social context surrounding its delivery, acknowledging that time and space constraints limit the exploration of all available features It highlights only the key points relevant to the study's objectives while intentionally omitting paralinguistic elements, such as intonation and loudness, as well as extra-linguistic factors like body language and facial expressions, despite their impact on conveying the speaker's ideology Ultimately, this research serves an academic purpose and is neutral, with no intention to influence political views.
Significance of the study
The significance of this study lies in its application of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) as a method for understanding political discourse By analyzing language characteristics, it reveals the power dynamics of speakers and demonstrates how linguistic elements can address social issues, thereby supporting CDA theories Furthermore, CDA enhances language awareness, enabling individuals to grasp the deeper meanings behind political speeches and increasing their sensitivity to language use This approach offers researchers a valuable perspective for language teaching and learning, fostering critical thinking about power in discourse.
Structure of the thesis
This research is organized into 5 chapters as briefly summarized below:
Chapter 1: Introduction this chapter introduce about rationale, aims, method, scope, significance and structure of the study
Chapter 2: Literature Review and Theoretical Background chapter two discusses CDA through discourse This chapter presents an overview of the definition CDA, and three mainly approaches of CDA, CDA concepts of ideology (discourse, power and ideology, and the function of ideology), and as social practice to orientate for the study
Furthermore, it summarizes some previous researches from CDA perspective to provide the thorough knowledge in CDA
Chapter 3: Research Methodology presents the data to be analyzed and the context in which it was constructed This study consists a textual analysis of the political speech launched by Donald Trump through the presidential inaugural address 2017 from inception to its denouement This chapter mentions the reasons to choose the topic and the context of the given address
Chapter 4: Findings and discussion is devoted to the analysis of the speech It seeks to answer the set of research questions that motivated this study and discussed the main findings The goal is to reveal the ways in which Donald Trump represents the social process, and to illustrate and demonstrate for what ideologies Donald Trump conveys and how they are realized linguistically in his speech
Chapter 5: Conclusion is summarized the main findings, and revisited the rationale and research objectives that guided this research The study is then evaluated in its limitations in terms of data selection and future research avenues in the field of political discourse analysis.
LITERATURE REVIEW& THEORETICAL BACKGROUND
Defining CDA
The roots of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) lie in classical Rhetoric, Textlinguistics and Sociolinguistics, as well as in Applied Linguistics and Pragmatics
Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) is an interdisciplinary approach that examines language as a social practice, highlighting the relationship between language use and social context (Fairclough/Wodak, 1997) It analyzes both written and spoken texts to explore how social power, dominance, and inequality are expressed, reproduced, and challenged through discourse CDA often addresses issues of social inequality, including aspects of religion, gender, and various ideologies Additionally, it investigates how political discourse is constructed through linguistic elements to influence and assert power within society Key characteristics of CDA include its focus on social practices, influential ideologies, prevailing social issues, and intertextuality, making it a valuable tool for analyzing language within its social context.
Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) explores the intricate relationship between language, power, and ideology by examining social interactions and their linguistic elements, revealing the often-hidden determinants within social relationships and their effects (Fairclough, 1989) It aims to uncover the implicit ideologies behind explicit propositions, particularly within social contexts (Fowler, 1996) By highlighting the power-generated hierarchical structures, CDA makes these concealed connections apparent to its audience, illustrating how power can create and sustain distinctions within social institutions (Fairclough, 1989).
Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) explores the intricate connections between language and social practices, revealing how language influences social change and institutional discourse (Van Dijk, 1998) It aims to uncover the ideological shaping of texts and events by power dynamics (Fairclough, 1995) CDA systematically examines the causal relationships between discursive practices and broader social and cultural structures, highlighting the interplay between language and societal power relations (Fairclough, 1995, p.132).
Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) seeks to explore the relationship between discourse structures and ideological frameworks, examining how ideology shapes discourse and, conversely, how discourse influences collective beliefs within specific groups or institutions regarding social phenomena This makes CDA a vital tool for uncovering the power dynamics employed by elite speakers in social discourse and practices.
Some key concepts in CDA
The term "ideology" originated in late 18th-century France and has been utilized for nearly two centuries Over time, it has acquired various functions and meanings, reflecting its evolving significance in different contexts.
According to Thompson (1990), ideology encompasses social forms and processes, with symbolic forms circulating within the social world In Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), ideology is viewed as a crucial mechanism for establishing and sustaining unequal power relations Scholars like Thompson (1984) and van Dijk (1995, 2006) assert that ideologies consist of shared values that guide social perception and interaction Thompson (1990) advocates for studying ideology as an exploration of how meaning is constructed and conveyed through various symbolic forms, while also examining the social contexts in which these forms are utilized.
“establish or sustain relations of domination” All the theories assume that „there are specific historical reasons why people come to feel, reason, desire, and imagine as they do‟
Ideologies serve as belief systems for social actors, providing essential frameworks that organize the shared social cognitions of members within various groups, organizations, or institutions In the realm of political discourse, these ideologies play a crucial role in shaping the narratives and perspectives presented.
Ideologies are shaped by both positive self-representation and negative other-representation, highlighting their cognitive and social dimensions (van Dijk, 2006) According to Fairclough (1995), ideologies exist at the intersection of societal structures and individual cognitive frameworks They enable social actors to form their identities, goals, and positions, influencing the knowledge and beliefs that shape their everyday experiences and the mental representations of their actions and discourse.
According to Fairclough (2001), ideology is intricately connected to power, as the ideological assumptions embedded in specific conventions are influenced by the underlying power relations Additionally, ideology is closely tied to language, which serves as the most prevalent form of social behavior we depend on.
Beliefs and attitudes rooted in ideology often operate unconsciously, influencing individuals' thought patterns and language These ideologies can be challenged or obscured through language, highlighting the complexity of their expression Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) plays a crucial role in revealing the underlying ideological aspects that shape social interactions (Bloor and Bloor, 2013:11).
Language use and discourse are significantly shaped by ideologies, particularly when we communicate as group members, reflecting our ideologically driven opinions Our values, beliefs, feelings, and attitudes profoundly influence our thoughts and behaviors, guiding how we act and exert control These underlying elements are intricately woven into the words we choose, revealing our intentions and decisions shaped by personal experiences across various contexts of text and conversation.
Ideology serves as a foundational belief system that performs several key functions within social groups It organizes and grounds shared social representations among group members, forming the basis for their discourses and social practices Additionally, ideology facilitates the coordination of joint actions and interactions, aligning them with the collective goals and interests of the group Furthermore, it acts as a socio-cognitive interface, connecting the social structures of groups with their discourses and practices (van Dijk, 2006).
Ideology operates by legitimizing unequal power dynamics, as noted by Bennie Lewis (I Petrovic, personal communication, September 15, 2015), which are portrayed as being in the collective interest One primary function of ideology is unification, enabling the dominant class to present itself as a cohesive entity against a perceived enemy, a phenomenon frequently observed in political contexts Conversely, fragmentation serves as another ideological function, highlighting divisions and differences within society, also evident in political arenas.
Ideology serves as a tool for power, aimed at persuading others to conform rather than simply to follow It emerges with the purpose of reproducing beliefs, influencing behavior, and exerting control over power dynamics in a coercive manner.
Power is an important concept in CDA studies “Power exists in various modalities, including the concrete and unmistakable modality of physical force” (Fairclough, 2001)
According to Van Dijk (2008), power is fundamentally a relational property among social groups, institutions, or organizations, as noted by Clegg (1989) and Lukes (1986) It derives from privileged access to valuable social resources, including wealth, employment opportunities, status, and preferential access to public discourse and communication.
Power, as defined by Van Dijk (1993) and cited in Fairclough (1985), involves the control of one group over another, impacting both actions and cognition While force can directly limit freedom, modern power often operates through cognitive means, such as persuasion and manipulation, to influence others' thoughts for self-serving interests This is where discourse and critical discourse analysis (CDA) become essential; managing others' minds is fundamentally linked to the use of text and talk Such management is not always overtly manipulative; dominance can be maintained through subtle, everyday forms of communication that seem natural and acceptable Therefore, CDA must examine the discursive strategies that legitimize control and perpetuate social inequalities.
In short, power is embodied through language and hidden behind language in use
Discourse is defined differently based on the theoretical perspective of each researcher Originating from the Latin word "discursus," which means conversation or speech, discourse can be understood as a form of social interaction that encompasses both spoken and written language.
Discourse encompasses the meaning and context of utterances, extending beyond individual sentences to include broader language use in social practices It involves the analysis of how language is utilized by individuals during communication, considering various factors such as participants, situations, purposes, and outcomes Discourse studies focus on these elements to understand the complexities of language in context.
Foucault (1972) defines discourse in three ways: first, as the overarching domain of all statements, representing the broadest theoretical applicability; second, as a distinct group of statements that are internally structured and coherent; and third, as a regulated practice that encompasses various statements.
CDA approaches
Prominent scholars have significantly advanced the field of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), with three main approaches standing out: Van Dijk's socio-cognitive approach, Wodak's historical approach, and Fairclough's dialectical-relational approach These practitioners are recognized as leading figures in CDA, each offering unique insights into the development process of this analytical framework.
2.3.1 The socio – cognitive approach by Teun van Dijk
Van Dijk, a prominent practitioner of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), initially concentrated on linguistics and discourse analysis In the 1980s, he shifted his focus to the representation of various minorities and ethnic groups in Europe Through his media discourse studies, he aimed to analyze how political perspectives are conveyed, linking language use in discourse to broader social practices.
According to Van Dijk (1993), a key element in the Socio-Cognitive Approach is the connection between power and discourse, particularly regarding how different social groups access community discourses This approach seeks to elucidate the interplay between power dynamics and discourse, providing a framework for analysis based on Van Dijk's theoretical insights.
In his 1995 study, Van Dijk emphasizes the importance of social, cognitive, and discourse analysis, distinguishing his approach from other Critical Discourse Analyses (CDA) by incorporating cognitive analysis as a means to understand mental representations and processes among group members, which are influenced by social power dynamics He asserts that language use and communication operate at the micro-level of social order, while concepts like power, dominance, and inequality are analyzed at the macro-level This study aims to apply a macro-level analysis to explore the intricate relationship between language use and power relations within political discourse.
Van Dijk's (2004) socio-cognitive model of discourse structures emphasizes the interplay between linguistic elements and their meanings, aiming to analyze discourse in relation to social practices through communication and interaction This model comprises both macrostructure and microstructure; the macrostructure addresses the overarching themes and general meanings of a text, while the microstructure delves into the specific elements and structures within the text At the micro level, the focus is on language use and verbal interactions, whereas the macro level examines issues of power, dominance, and inequality among various social groups.
Recent findings in socio-cognition highlight the interplay between social and personal contexts in uniting society and discourse This involves understanding social cognition, which refers to the behavioral systems and mental representations of group members, as well as personal cognition, which is shaped by ideological processes that influence how individuals comprehend discourse and engage in various actions and interactions.
2.3.2 The discourse – historical approach by Ruth Wodak
The approach to delimiting borders in discourse analysis, as outlined by Wodak and her colleague (2009), emphasizes the significance of historical contexts in understanding and interpreting discourse from multiple analytical perspectives Key elements of this framework include (1) macro-topic-relatedness, (2) pluri-perspectivity, and (3) argumentativity Additionally, discourse historical analysis (DHA) explores the intertextual and interdiscursive relationships among utterances, texts, genres, and broader discourse, enhancing our comprehension of how these elements interact within historical contexts.
The DHA examines the intertextual and interdiscursive relationships among utterances, texts, genres, and discourses, while also considering the historical context of organizations and situational frames It investigates how these elements evolve in response to sociopolitical changes Intertextuality highlights the connections between texts and discourses, while the concept of the "field of action" refers to segments of social reality that shape the framework of discourse Consequently, varying fields of action are characterized by distinct functions of discursive practices.
Wodak (2001) posits a dialectical relationship between discursive practices and situational, institutional, and social structures, indicating that these contexts shape and influence discourse Conversely, discourse also impacts both discursive and non-discursive social and political processes and actions Reisigl and Wodak (2009) further define discourse as a multifaceted phenomenon that encompasses these dynamics.
- a cluster of context-dependent semiotic practices that are situated within specific fields of social action
- socially constituted and socially constitutive
- linked to the argumentation about validity claims such as truth and normative valid-ity involving several social actors who have different points of view
In summary, Wodak's analytical tools in Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) highlight key historical features of discourse Her work primarily focuses on elucidating the principles of discourse linguistics.
2.3.3 The dialectical – relational approach by Norman Fairclough
Fairclough is recognized for his substantial contributions to Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) His methodology aims to enhance awareness of exploitative social relations by emphasizing the role of language in these dynamics (1998, p.4).
In this strategy, the purpose is as participating in “properties”, and as
“extensive frameworks” of CDA, which presented by Fairclough (1992, 1993,
According to Wodak (2001, p.1)‟s view, the approach to CDA “may be as fundamentally concerned with analyzing opaque as well as transparent structural language”
This research examines the connections between social practices and language, emphasizing how these elements influence the interpretation of texts It highlights that the relationships between textual properties and social processes, such as ideologies and power dynamics, are often not readily apparent to individuals engaging with these texts Fairclough (1992) introduces the concept of "naturalization" to describe how these aspects are analyzed within socio-political and socio-historical contexts.
“production”, and “interpretation” Discourse, and any specific instance of discursive practice, as seen as simultaneously, “a language text, spoken or written”, “discourse practice (text production and text interpretation)”,
Therefore, the method of discourse analysis includes linguistic
“description” of the language text, “interpretation” of the relationships between the (productive and interpretive) discursive processes and the text, and
“explanation” of the relationship of the discursive processes and the social processes From three Fairclough‟s dimensions can be done to apply analysis as shown in the diagram below:
Discursive Practice- production, production, distribute, consumption
Figure 1 Socio-political and socio-historic context (Fairclough, 1992)
The analysis of discourse involves three key stages: description, interpretation, and explanation In the description stage, linguistic features such as vocabulary, grammar, and textual structure are examined According to Fairclough (1989), this stage focuses on the formal properties of the text, exploring aspects like word choice, grammatical features—including transitivity and passive voice—and the overall structure of the discourse, which aligns with Halliday's systemic-functional grammar Key questions and sub-questions guide this analysis, highlighting the importance of each linguistic element in understanding the text.
According to Fairclough (1989), interpretation involves understanding the relationship between text and interaction, viewing the text as both a product of production and a resource for interpretation It is essential to analyze discourse not only as text but also as a discursive practice, which requires attention to linguistic features, text structure, speech acts, and intertextuality These elements connect the text to its broader context, highlighting that intertextuality encompasses both institutional processes, such as editorial procedures, and discursive processes, thereby providing a comprehensive explanation of the discourse process.
Fairclough (1989) emphasizes that explanation involves understanding the connection between interaction and social context, as well as how these elements influence the production and interpretation of texts and their societal impacts This analysis considers historical, social, and cultural contexts, aligning with the concept of "discourse as social practice," particularly "sociocultural practice." At this stage, factors such as ideology and power are essential to comprehensively elucidate the interplay between social-cultural contexts and the creation and consumption of texts.
Review of previous studies
CDA intersects with various disciplines, particularly in the analysis of political speeches and presidential inaugural addresses, making these topics central to researchers in the field.
Tran Thi Quynh Le (2006) explored the significant role of language in society by applying Norman Fairclough's Critical Discourse Analysis and Mark Halliday's Systemic Functional Grammar to analyze George W Bush's inaugural speeches from the 2000 and 2004 U.S Presidential Elections The study revealed that elements such as over-lexicalization, lexical choice, modality, pronouns, transitivity, and themes illustrate the close relationship between language and power It concluded that the socio-political context plays a crucial role in shaping how ideology is expressed through language.
Interactive Enacted role (speech roles) Projected roles
In her 2014 analysis, Nguyen Dieu Hang utilized Norman Fairclough's three dimensions to explore how President Barack Obama conveyed his power and ideology during his speech at Nelson Mandela's memorial The study revealed that Obama employed various linguistic features as strategies to express his ideals, emphasizing themes of freedom, democracy, and tolerance, which resonate not only with Mandela but also reflect Obama's own values.
The study "Power Relation on Donald Trump’s Political Campaign 2015" by Arif Angga Putra (2016) investigates the discursive strategies of power relations within Trump's campaign, employing Van Dijk's CDA theory for qualitative analysis The findings reveal that Trump utilizes discourse to reflect his power dynamics, aiming to influence public perception by delegitimizing various individuals, races, and political opponents through tactics of victimization, underestimation, and discrimination, thereby enhancing his own authority.
The study by Andhita Rachman and Sofi Yunianti (2017) applies Van Dijk's theory to analyze political discourse in Donald Trump's presidential campaign through Critical Discourse Analysis The research highlights how the speaker's delivery and the intent behind utterances impact the audience Utilizing a descriptive qualitative method, the study examines data related to Donald Trump's political discourse.
In his 2017 analysis, Robert Mcclay investigates the discourse in three of Donald Trump's political speeches, focusing on how Trump shapes a reality for his audience that reflects his ideology The study, titled “A Descriptive Analysis of Donald Trump’s Campaign Speech,” uncovers the strategies Trump employs to represent social actors, revealing an ideology characterized by the use of the pronouns "Us vs Them." This research underscores the necessity of grasping the underlying ideology in Trump's messages to effectively interpret the discourse he utilizes.
Wen Chen's 2018 study employs Halliday's systematic-functional framework to examine the interplay of language, power, and ideology in "Donald Trump's Inaugural Speech," focusing on transitivity, modality, personal pronouns, and coherence The research highlights political discourse as a reflection of the speaker's ideology and intentions, emphasizing the importance of critical discourse analysis This analysis aims to uncover the speaker's political motives, enhance readers' understanding of the discourse's meaning, and foster critical consciousness and analytical skills.
Previous studies have primarily concentrated on text analysis without integrating additional approaches to reinforce their main theories This research aims to bridge that gap by employing Critical Discourse Analysis, specifically utilizing Norman Fairclough's three models The researcher selected this particular speech and Fairclough's framework to provide a comprehensive analysis that supports the underlying theory.
Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), as articulated by Fairclough, plays a vital role in understanding the connection between social practices and the transfer of ideology This relationship highlights how ideological values embedded within discourse often remain implicit and challenging to identify Furthermore, critical linguistics serves as a tool to uncover these hidden ideologies, allowing for a deeper exploration of language representation through the analysis of lexical choices.
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Data
Donald Trump's inaugural speech, delivered on January 20, 2017, marked the beginning of his presidency as the 45th President of the United States This pivotal address, available on CNN's YouTube channel, lasted approximately twenty minutes and set the tone for his four-year term, representing a significant moment in his political career.
In his speech to the American people, Trump emphasized a national interest centered around "America First" and the slogan "Make America Great Again." The focus was on showcasing core American values rather than promoting alternative priorities Trump's consistency and unique perspectives aimed to instill confidence in Americans that his future strategies align with the foundational values of his ideology This address serves as a reflection of Trump's vision for the future of the United States.
Numerous studies have focused on Donald Trump's Inaugural Speech, exploring its significance through various lenses, such as Wen Chen's critical discourse analysis using System Functional Grammar and Lect Habeeb M Areef Al-Saeedi's examination of repetition in the address While both authors offer unique perspectives and analyses, there is a noticeable gap in research that applies the Fairclough model of Critical Discourse Analysis to this speech.
Social context of the speech
Donald John Trump, born on June 14, 1946, in the Queens borough of New York City, earned his economics degree from the Wharton School between 1966 and 1968 Prior to his political career, he gained prominence as a businessman and television personality.
Donald Trump registered as a Republican in Manhattan in 1987, transitioned to the Reform Party in 1999, and then to the Democratic Party in 2001, before returning to the Republican Party in 2009 In 2010, he made donations to both the Democratic and Republican parties Notably, in 1999, Trump aimed to secure the Reform Party's nomination for the 2000 presidential election but ultimately withdrew from the race.
In February 2011, Trump delivered a significant speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), which marked the beginning of his political journey within the Republican Party as he considered a presidential run for 2012 By 2012, he focused on illegal immigration during a sparsely attended speech and invested in research to explore the viability of a 2016 candidacy.
In June 2015, Donald Trump announced his candidacy for president of the United States at Trump Tower, using the campaign slogan "Make America Great Again." By March 2016, he was on track to secure the Republican nomination and began campaigning against Hillary Clinton, the presumptive Democratic nominee During his inauguration on January 20, 2017, Trump emphasized his key themes of "Make America Great Again" and "America First," reinforcing his message to prioritize American interests Trump officially became the 45th President of the United States, marking the beginning of his presidency.
Analytical framework
Norman Fairclough, a leading practitioner in Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), built upon Halliday's Systemic Functional Grammar (SFG) to create a three-dimensional framework This framework encompasses three key components: the description of the relationship between text, the interpretation of the relationship between text and interaction, and the explanation of how interaction relates to social context.
Description the set of formal features of the text is analyzed to express
(experiential, relational and expressive values) through vocabulary that illustrate political views.These features are expressed in diagrammatically bellow:
Dimensions of meaning Values of features Structural effects
Structural effects Social relations Social identities
Figure 3: Formal features: experiential, relational and expressive values
A formal feature with experiential value reflects the text producer's experiences of the natural or social world, encompassing their knowledge and beliefs In contrast, a formal feature with relational value indicates the social relationships expressed within the discourse, highlighting interpersonal connections Lastly, expressive value serves as a reflection of the producer's evaluations, relating to subjects and social identities Thus, experiential value reveals how ideological differences are encoded in the vocabulary of texts, influencing their representation of the world.
To uncover the underlying ideology within discourse, it is essential to analyze the embedded messages and the speaker's intended purpose for clearer understanding Fairclough (1989) proposes ten key questions, along with various sub-questions, that focus on vocabulary, grammar, and textual structures.
1 What experiential values do words have?
What classification schemes are drawn upon?
Are there words which are ideologically contested?
Is there rewording or overwording?
What ideologically significant meaning relations are there between words?
2 What relational values do words have?
Are there markedly formal or informal words?
3 What expressive values do words have?
4 What experiential values do grammatical features have?
What types of process and participants predominate?
Are processes what they seem?
Are sentences active or passive?
Are sentences positive or negative?
5 What relational values do grammatical features have?
Are there important features of relational modality?
Are the pronouns we and you used and if so, how?
7 What expressive values do grammatical features have?
Are there important features of expressive modality?
8 How are (simple) sentences linked together?
What logical connectors are used?
Are complex sentences characterized by coordination or/ subordination?
What means are used for referring inside and outside the text?
9 What interactional conventions are used?
Are there ways in which one participant controls the turns of others?
10 What larger scale structures does the text have?
The vocabulary section focuses on word selection, while grammar pertains to grammatical features closely aligned with Halliday's systemic-functional grammar Additionally, the textual structures aspect addresses the overall organization of discourse.
The term interpretation is reffered to the name of a stage in the procedure, and for the interpretation of the texts by discourse participants
Fairclough (1989) emphasizes that interpretation involves understanding the connection between text and interaction, viewing text as both a product of production and a resource for interpretation This stage requires analyzing the relationship between discourse, its production, and consumption Discourse is seen not just as text but as a discursive practice, necessitating an examination of linguistic features and text structure, along with factors like speech acts and intertextuality, which connect the text to its broader context.
Interpretation serves as a bridge between textual discourse and its social context, relying on both the content of the text and the interpreter's resources (MR) These resources encompass the background knowledge, values, beliefs, and assumptions that inform the interpretation process According to Fairclough (2001), formal features of the text act as "cues" that activate the interpreter's MR, facilitating a deeper understanding of the text within its social framework.
There are six major domains of interpretation are shown in figure 4:
Interpretative procedures (MR) Resources Interpreting
Phonology, grammar,vocabulary Source of utterance
Semantics, Pragmatics Meaning of utterance
Fairclough (2001) outlines four of the six domains of language analysis: the surface of utterance, which involves transforming sounds or written symbols into understandable words and sentences; the meaning of utterance, focused on attributing significance to the components of a text; local coherence, which connects utterances to create coherent interpretations of pairs and sequences; and text structure and 'point,' which examines how an entire text is organized and unified.
The dimension of text as discursive practice encompasses two key processes: the institutional process, which refers to the editorial procedures, and the discourse process, which involves the transformations a text undergoes during its production and consumption A crucial concept in understanding the discourse process is "intertextuality," which explores the relationships among discourse, texts, and their contexts This perspective emphasizes that discourse should be viewed not merely as a linguistic construct but as a form of discursive practice that reflects these intertextual connections.
The explanation stage focuses on understanding the social determinants of production and interpretation processes and their societal impacts As Fairclough (1989) notes, this involves examining the interplay between interaction and social context, highlighting how discourse functions within social practices shaped by underlying structures Fairclough (2001) emphasizes that discourse is not only influenced by social structures but also plays a role in sustaining or altering them This relationship is mediated by the concept of MR, where social structures shape MR, which in turn influences discourse, ultimately affecting social structures again The explanation stage aligns with the notion of "discourse as social practice" and emphasizes the historical context of discourse shaped by past struggles Consequently, both the social effects and determinants of discourse can be analyzed at three levels of social organization: societal, institutional, and situational.
Institutional MR Discourse MR Institutional
This article explores the determinants and effects of discourse by examining two dimensions of social organization across three levels: societal, institutional, and situational It summarizes Fairclough's framework through three key questions that can be applied to analyze specific discourse.
FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION
Textual description and analysis
Analyzing the experiential and expressive values of text is essential in critical discourse analysis According to Fairclough (2001), this process involves three stages: describing the data, interpreting the relationship between the text, and explaining the connection between interaction and social context By examining lexical choices, such as the use of negative or positive words, one can uncover the relationship between ideology and power, as well as the speaker's ideology, thereby elucidating the interplay between discourse processes and social practices.
According to Van Dijk (2001), lexical selection is influenced by underlying ideological semantics, allowing vocabulary to convey experiential values This is particularly evident in speeches, which often feature both positive and negative language In this context, Donald Trump's inaugural speech, lasting approximately twenty minutes, emphasizes his commitment to "Make America Great Again."
Great Again”- “America First”, to clarify demonstration in the using of vocabulary, vocabulary plays an important role and relates values
In his speech, Trump conveyed a strong belief in the future strength of the United States, emphasizing his perspective that impulsive actions can lead to greater power.
Trump's discourse emphasizes the transfer of power back to the American people, positioning his administration as a catalyst for change within Washington D.C By carefully selecting vocabulary that resonates with the public, he aims to foster trust in the government and encourage acceptance of new policies aligned with his party's vision.
Trump's ideology emphasizes that the government prioritizes the interests of Americans, asserting that power resides with the people Through his rhetoric, he aims to inspire enthusiasm and foster a sense of pride among his audience, ultimately seeking to garner their support.
“For too long, a small group in our nation's Capital has reaped the rewards of government”(line 17)
Donald Trump, as a wealthy businessman, presents his views from a unique perspective that differs from traditional political narratives He highlights the struggles faced by many individuals in society, contrasting them with the benefits enjoyed by a small elite in the nation's capital, who have profited from government actions.
“have borne the cost” (line 18)
The use of the word "borne" highlights the challenging circumstances faced by society, emphasizing both the seriousness of the issues at hand and the speaker's self-awareness and connection with the audience This choice of language reflects Donald Trump’s ideology, signaling his commitment to addressing social inequality and justice as the new president.
To shorten the distance and add closeness to the audiences, he uses “we” pronoun to imply that Trump is one member of the public through sentences below:
“we've enriched foreign industry at the expense of American industry; subsidized the armies of other countries while allowing for the very sad depletion of our military”(line 56-58)
The speaker highlights evidence of economic industry, military strength, and border trade, while critiquing past domestic policies and diplomatic strategies that contributed to failures He aims to revitalize the economy and build infrastructure, fostering public trust in his vision and new administration His commitment to creating opportunities for the American people is evident in his statements.
“looking only to the future; assembled here today; issuing a new decree to be heard in every city, in every foreign capital, and in every hall of power;
From this day forward, is going to be only America first, America first”(line 68-72)
The ruling party emphasizes the significance of solidarity while promoting its vision for a prosperous future By prioritizing commercial developments, it aims to gain support and advocacy from the community.
Trump's unwavering focus is on prioritizing the needs of Americans, reflecting his goal to earn their support By emphasizing the importance of people's interests, he positions himself as a leader capable of restoring core American values.
"Embracing protectionism will foster unprecedented prosperity and strength for America, enabling the nation to reclaim its jobs, borders, wealth, and dreams We will invest in infrastructure by building new roads, highways, and bridges, while also transitioning individuals from welfare back into the workforce."
Donald Trump urges Americans to strive for a better life, emphasizing that they are the true masters of their nation with a vital role on the global stage He highlights the importance of individual contributions and responsibilities in safeguarding and building the country According to Trump, the nation's strength and prosperity depend on collective efforts from all citizens.
Trump employs various strategies to convey his ideology, utilizing promises that reflect his desire for control This approach highlights the underlying influence of language as a subtle yet powerful tool in shaping perceptions and beliefs.
“Buy American and hire American”(line 87)
Trump's speech serves as a powerful tool to convey his intentions and ideology, emphasizing that it is essential for the American people to take control of their own country.
In summary, the speech effectively highlights the significant impact of language in illustrating the current state of the United States, suggesting a decline in America's strength as evidenced by the following statement.
“American First” - “Make America Great Again” (line 71 &138)
Interpretation of the relationship between the productive and
The interpretative stage analyzes both text and context, focusing on the explanation of utterances and their meanings, as well as local coherence and textual significance (Fairclough, 2001).
This article explores the interpretation of Donald Trump's speech, highlighting how specific textual features reveal the speaker's power and ideology It emphasizes the importance of situational context and intertextual context in understanding the speech's meaning, providing readers with a deeper insight into the nuances of the message delivered.
Fairclough (2001) identifies four key situational dimensions through essential questions: "What’s going on?", "Who’s involved?", "In what relations?", and "What’s the role of language in what’s going on?" These inquiries help to analyze the context and dynamics of communication effectively.
In term of “what’s going on?” this activity is both conveying and informing to the United States and all the world about the inaugural ceremony, on January 20,
In his 2017 speech, Trump articulates his ideology by leveraging the power of words to persuade the audience, addressing various domestic and international challenges He presents solutions to overcome existing weaknesses and outlines plans for a united future, aiming to usher the country into a new era.
The speaker's expectations and aggressive impulses were conveyed through subtle, unspoken words aimed at building audience trust in support of his new policy and administration.
In analyzing the participants involved, it's crucial to identify the key roles within the discourse, primarily the speaker and the audience In this context, Donald Trump serves as the main speaker, highlighting the social identities of all participants involved in the conversation.
The new President stands at the forefront, representing the entire United States in a speech directed at all Americans The audience, eager to hear the address, engages through various mediums, including television, online news, and even from a distance, capturing the essence of the moment, whether or not they can see Trump's presence at the ceremony.
In the context of the speech, the speaker may represent various political parties and social identities; however, there is a lack of interaction between the speaker and the audience The speaker uses language to assert their intentions and ideologies directly, leaving the audience unable to fully interpret the underlying messages.
In examining the dynamics of power and social distance, it is essential to consider the nature of the relationship between the speaker and the audience (Fairclough, 2001) Understanding these relationships helps to elucidate how power is established and enacted within the given context.
The speaker's inability to directly engage with the audience limits interaction, as diverse ideologies, societal backgrounds, and institutional influences lead to varied interpretative processes and interpretations among listeners.
Language serves as a powerful tool for conveying information, reflecting the speaker's ideology, opinions, and authority In the context of speech acts, figures like Donald Trump utilize language to engage their audience, aiming to persuade them to support and endorse future plans and new policies.
Explanation of the relationship between discourse and social process
Fairclough (2001) emphasizes that language serves as a crucial component of social processes, particularly in relation to power dynamics He argues that discourse is shaped by social structures and can either reinforce or transform these structures over time To fully understand these dynamics, it is essential to examine social organization at three levels: societal, institutional, and situational Each level reveals how ideologies are articulated and challenged within the context of social struggle.
In his speech, Trump distinguishes himself from traditional political figures, as noted by former British ambassador Christopher Meyer, who highlights the unprecedented nature of Trump's campaign and its implications for both outsiders and Americans The rise of Trumpism signifies a cultural shift in American politics, prompting the need for deeper understanding of these changes to better prepare for the future.
The current domestic and foreign policy perspective marks a significant departure from that of previous administrations, signaling a transformative shift for the United States President Trump emphasizes prioritizing core and national interests, a theme evident in his inauguration speech, which stood out from those of his predecessors His address reflected the voice of a billionaire rather than a typical politician, highlighting a unique approach to leadership in the nation.
Mr Donald Trump distinguishes himself by focusing less on his predecessors and more on criticizing Washington politicians, whom he accuses of being all talk and no action He emphasizes that the era of empty rhetoric has ended, stating, “We will no longer accept politicians who are all talk and no action.” Trump frames his presidency as a transfer of power from the Washington government back to the American people, asserting, “Today we are not merely transferring power from one Administration to another, but we are transferring power from Washington, D.C and giving it back to you, the American People.”
A key message emphasized in the article is the importance of prioritizing American interests, with a focus on securing borders and protecting domestic jobs from foreign competition The slogan “Buy American and Hire Americans” reflects this commitment Additionally, the article highlights that the transition of power is not merely a shift between political parties but a restoration of authority to the American people, fostering unity and collective strength.
The focus on American people and their needs is crucial for fostering strength in the nation, as highlighted by the "America First" and "Make America Great Again" themes Trump's approach marks a significant departure from traditional politics, aiming to create real power and a smooth path for the future, reflecting a desire for change among the populace.
Donald Trump stands out as an unprecedented and unpredictable figure in American presidential history, emerging against a backdrop of national division and global criticism His rise to the White House as a billionaire businessman reflects a desire for change and hope in a country grappling with inequality However, this complex context also presents significant challenges for the 45th President of the United States.
This section analyzes D.J Trump's speech, highlighting his significant influence on the American public and the nation The following chapter will summarize key findings, address the study's limitations, and offer recommendations for future research.