INTRODUCTION
Rationale
Critical discourse analysis (CDA) differs from traditional discourse analysis by examining the connections between language, ideology, and power This thesis utilizes CDA as a key method to investigate how effectively language conveys Obama's ideas and ideology.
Barack Hussein Obama was elected the 44th president of the United States on November 3, 2008, becoming the first African American president in history He took office during a critical time marked by the Great Depression, with the nation facing multiple crises, including war and economic instability Under Obama's visionary leadership, America gradually emerged from this turmoil, achieving a stronger economy, a more equitable society, and enhanced national security After serving two terms, he delivered his presidential farewell speech in his hometown, emphasizing a call to action and a cautionary message As a skilled politician, Obama meticulously crafted his speech, showcasing the importance of language in political discourse and the ideological implications of his carefully chosen words.
In his farewell address on January 10, 2017, President Obama strategically crafted his discourse just days before his successor's inauguration to showcase his ideologies and legacy Utilizing a rich vocabulary and effective discourse structure, he demonstrated a profound understanding of the power of language Delivered from his hometown of Chicago, this final public speech highlighted the numerous accomplishments of his two-term presidency, reinforcing his ideological stance and leaving a lasting impact.
For the above reasons, the author carries out the research entitled ―A critical discourse analysis of Barack Obama’s farewell address”.
Aims of the research
This research explores the linguistic strategies and ideologies of President Barack Obama, focusing on his farewell address through the lens of critical discourse analysis The study highlights various linguistic features within the speech, aiming to provide a comprehensive analysis of its underlying meanings and power dynamics.
In doing CDA of his speech, the author intends to answer the following question:
- What linguistic features does Barack Obama use to express his ideology in his farewell address?
Significance of the research
This study holds significant theoretical value, capturing the interest of political scientists, historians, and linguists alike Linguists engaged in this research can leverage their understanding of critical discourse analysis to illuminate how power and ideology are intricately woven into language, highlighting the broader relationship between language and society.
As an English language graduate, my thesis holds significant practical value, enhancing my understanding of the English language and fostering my professional growth Through this research, I am able to gain insights into American culture, society, and politics, which deepens my comprehension of the United States I aspire for my thesis to contribute meaningfully to the field of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) and to the broader study of English.
Scope of the research
This research presents a case study focused on a single speech by Obama, utilizing Fairclough's approach for analysis Due to the limited scope of the study, it does not delve deeply into Halliday's functional grammar.
According to Fairclough's theory of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), the analysis comprises three key stages: description, interpretation, and explanation The descriptive stage involves examining vocabulary, grammatical features such as personal pronouns, voice, sentence mode, modality, and cohesive devices The interpretation stage delves deeper into these features while analyzing the situational and intertextual contexts Finally, the explanation stage provides a comprehensive understanding of the discourse.
Methodology of the research
This study employs a discourse analysis utilizing Fairclough's qualitative approach, one of the most comprehensive frameworks in Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) The analysis encompasses three levels: description, interpretation, and explanation, which are further detailed in section 3.4 of the framework.
Structure of the thesis
The study is divided into 5 chapters as follow:
- Chapter 1: INTRODUCTION includes rationale, aims, specific objectives, scope and significance of the study
Chapter 2: LITERATURE REVIEW explores prior research on critical discourse analysis of President Barack Obama's speeches This section also provides the theoretical framework underpinning the study, which includes definitions of discourse analysis (DA) and critical discourse analysis (CDA), as well as essential concepts such as discourse and power.
- Chapter 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY mentions the reasons to choose the topic, data collection techniques, data analysis procedure and Fairclough‘s CDA framework
- Chapter 4: A CRITICAL DISCOURSE ANALYSIS OF BARACK
OBAMA‘S FAREWELL ADDRESS shows the result of the study The analysis of data and the findings are also indicated in this chapter
- Chapter 5: CONCLUSION summarizes main findings and providing concluding remarks, limitations of the current research as well as suggestions for further study.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Previous studies
A critical discourse analysis of Barack Obama’s speeches, conducted by Junling Wang in 2010, utilizes Halliday’s systemic functional grammar within CDA theory to examine the President's rhetoric This study reveals the underlying ideology and power dynamics present in Obama’s speeches, providing valuable insights for readers.
Barack Obama's speeches exemplify key features of Halliday's systemic functional grammar, enhancing audience connection through his choice of simple words, short sentences, and colloquial language Transitivity analysis reveals a predominant use of material processes, highlighting the government's accomplishments and future actions Additionally, Obama's effective use of modal verbs, tense, and first-person pronouns facilitates audience comprehension and acceptance of his political messages This strategic use of first-person pronouns fosters a sense of closeness between the speaker and the audience, reinforcing engagement with his ideas.
This study utilizes Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) to reveal how President Barack Obama's linguistic strategies reflect his ideology and power It emphasizes the significance of CDA in the context of teaching and studying English, highlighting the linguistic techniques employed to convey presidential ideology To enhance clarity and coherence, the research should clearly outline its rationale, aims, and significance from the outset, along with a structured overview of its main components Additionally, a stronger focus on the theoretical background is essential, as it provides the foundational framework necessary for developing the author's arguments effectively.
Another study named ―Critical discourse analysis of Barack Obama’s 2012 speeches: Views from systemic functional linguistics and rhetoric‖, 2014 by
Bahram Kazemian and Somayyeh Hashemi exemplify the application of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) by employing Halliday's ideational grammatical metaphor and rhetoric to examine Barack Obama's five speeches from 2012 Their research focuses on the interplay of language and meaning within these speeches, highlighting how CDA can reveal underlying ideologies and communicative strategies.
President Obama employs various linguistic and rhetorical strategies to enhance the effectiveness of his speeches, prominently utilizing nominalization, passivization, and modal verbs These techniques not only make his language powerful and persuasive but also allow for cohesive discussions Nominalization, in particular, aids in generalization and objectification, contributing to the overall beauty and ambiguity of his texts Through the use of rhetorical devices such as parallelism and unification strategies, Obama enhances the clarity and persuasiveness of his messages Ultimately, these strategies aim to convey personal ideologies, foster differentiation, and demonstrate solidarity with his audience.
The study explores Barack Obama's ideologies through various linguistic strategies, highlighting political purposes and implications for reading and writing pedagogy relevant to translators and instructors It emphasizes the need for clarity in the rationale, aims, and significance of the research from the outset, enabling readers to grasp its purpose Additionally, the structure of the research should be clearly outlined for better understanding The theoretical background and framework are crucial for grounding the analysis; however, the authors, Bahram Kazemian and Somayyeh Hashemi, do not provide sufficient detail on critical discourse analysis (CDA) and related concepts.
Next, the study named ―A critical discourse analysis of the U.S President
Nguyễn Thu Trang's analysis of Barack Obama’s Inaugural speeches from 2009 and 2013 employs Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) using Fairclough's framework and Systemic Functional Grammar (SFL) developed by M.A.K Halliday The study focuses on transitivity and thematization to uncover the underlying power dynamics and ideologies conveyed through Obama's rhetoric.
This study explores three levels of discourse analysis: Description, Interpretation, and Explanation In the descriptive phase, the author examines vocabulary and grammatical features, highlighting aspects such as personal pronouns, voice, sentence mode, modality, cohesive devices, transitivity, thematization, and the macro-structure of the text The interpretation phase focuses on analyzing both the situational context and intertextual context to provide a deeper understanding of the discourse.
The study is well-structured into five chapters: introduction, literature review, methodology, critical analysis, and conclusion The author effectively demonstrates how language conveys the power and ideology of Barack Obama However, the study fails to clearly differentiate between Discourse Analysis (DA) and Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), which is crucial for understanding the author's preference for CDA Additionally, in Chapter 3, the methodology should be further subdivided to prevent overlap Lastly, the interpretation would benefit from a more in-depth analysis of Obama's ideology and power, rather than merely focusing on situational and intertextual contexts.
Theoretical background
Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), as defined by Ruth Wodak and Michael Meyer (2001), refers to an earlier theory called critical linguistics, which emerged in Britain during the 1980s with the publication of "Language and Control." The terms CDA and critical linguistics are often used interchangeably.
Van Dijk (1993) stated that CDA is a type of discourse analytical research that aims at addressing social problem such as social power abuse, dominance and
In her 2016 study, Nguyễn Thu Trang conducts a critical discourse analysis of Barack Obama’s inaugural speeches from 2009 and 2013, focusing on themes of inequality Drawing from Fairclough's (1989) concept of CDA as a "transdisciplinary approach," the study emphasizes that language functions as a form of social practice, revealing how social and political domination, as well as the distribution of "social goods," are portrayed and reinforced through discourse Critical discourse analysts aim to comprehend and challenge social inequalities, as highlighted by Van Dijk (1985).
Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) focuses on public speech forms, including newspapers, advertisements, political propaganda, and official documents, aiming to uncover the intricate relationships between language, ideology, and power It reveals how language serves as a crucial tool for manipulating hidden intentions, exploring the connections between texts and social events that may not be overtly apparent According to Fairclough (1989), CDA emphasizes the influence of powerful individuals in shaping discourse and social order, highlighting the significance of language in the domination of some groups over others.
The author highlights the importance of contextual knowledge in Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) and its relevance to social reality In "Discourse Studies: A Multidisciplinary Introduction" (2006), he asserts that CDA is not merely an objective social science; rather, it is an engaged and committed approach aimed at intervening in social practices and relationships (p 358).
Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) is defined as a method of discourse analysis that systematically examines the often complex relationships of causality between discursive practices, events, and texts, and the broader social and cultural structures It investigates how these elements are influenced by power dynamics and ideological struggles, while also exploring how these relationships contribute to the maintenance of power and hegemony in society.
Ruth Wodak emphasizes that Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) is based on the premise of unequal access to linguistic and social resources, which are institutionally controlled This unequal access significantly influences discourse, social practices, and communicative events, making it a crucial focus for CDA Consequently, CDA seeks to critically analyze and address social, political, and cultural inequalities.
Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), as defined in 1995, examines the intricate relationship between discursive practices and the social structures that shape them This relationship is often not immediately apparent to readers or listeners, prompting CDA to explore and reveal the causal and determinative connections between the two.
Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) examines how practices are shaped by ideologies influenced by power dynamics within communities Fairclough (1995, 2002) emphasizes the significance of language in both revealing and constructing social processes and interactions, as it penetrates the complexities of social life, including structures and events He posits that language is "a form of social practice" and views it as a "socially conditioned process," highlighting its active role in shaping society rather than merely reflecting it Fairclough and Wodak (1997) encapsulate the essence of CDA by underscoring the integral connection between language and social processes.
- CDA addresses social problems and shows that power relations are discursive
Discourse shapes society and culture, playing a crucial role in ideological expression through the connection between text and social contexts Discourse analysis serves as a method of interpretation and explanation, often taking a historical perspective on social actions.
In conclusion, the main focus of CDA is to answer the question of language and power, discovering the connection among discourse practices, social practices and social structures
Discourse analysis (DA) and critical discourse analysis (CDA) are distinct concepts DA is an interdisciplinary approach that can be applied across various social domains and research types, as noted by Jorgensen and Phillips (2002:12) This method of analysis is closely tied to its theoretical and methodological foundations According to Brown & Yule (1983:26), engaging in discourse analysis extends beyond merely examining syntax and semantics.
Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) examines social issues, particularly how discourse contributes to the perpetuation of power abuse and domination (van Dijk, 2001) It investigates the intricate relationship between language and power, focusing on both obvious and subtle structures of dominance, discrimination, and control as expressed through language (Wodak, 2001).
According to Rogers (2004:3), Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) differs from other discourse analysis methods by incorporating a detailed description and interpretation of discourse within its context, while also providing insights into the reasons and mechanisms behind the functioning of these discourses.
Wodak (2001) highlights that the differences between Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) and other forms of Discourse Analysis (DA) are best understood through CDA's fundamental principles Fairclough and Wodak (1997, as cited in van Dijk, 1993) outline eight essential principles of CDA, which Rogers (2004) regards as a valuable foundation for researchers aiming to explore CDA.
In common usage, "critical" often denotes evaluation based on established rules and values (Locke, 2004) However, in the context of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), it transcends mere criticism or negativity Wodak (2001) emphasizes that being "critical" involves unraveling complexities, challenging simplistic views, and being self-reflective in research, ultimately revealing hidden power structures and ideologies Thus, "critical" should be understood as a form of skepticism rather than negativity According to Rogers (2004), this critical framework enables analysts to investigate power dynamics and uncover societal inequalities.
Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) merges linguistic theories with sociopolitical and critical frameworks, as noted by Gee (2004) This unique combination distinguishes CDA from other analytical approaches, allowing for a deeper understanding of the interplay between language and societal power dynamics.
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Reason to choose the speech
Citizens' solidarity and unity are crucial for the health of a nation's democracy, a sentiment echoed by various leaders President Obama, in his 2018 speech "A More Perfect Union," emphasized that a union can and should evolve over time Similarly, Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee, highlighted the necessity of solidarity, political neutrality, and unity for the Olympic Movement, stating that individual interests must be set aside for the greater mission Furthermore, Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the European Commission, underscored the importance of honesty, union, and solidarity in his 2015 address, asserting that a more peaceful world requires greater collaboration and collective effort.
In his farewell address, Obama emphasized the importance of solidarity and unity in maintaining democracy and strengthening the nation He urged citizens to come together, as collective strength is essential for overcoming challenges and safeguarding the country This message highlights the critical role of unity in fostering a resilient society and is a central theme in the study of foreign policy in Europe and beyond.
Data collection techniques
The farewell address of President Obama is sourced from the official White House website, https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov This site is considered highly reliable due to its status as the official government platform, ensuring the authenticity of the speech among numerous other sources available online.
Data analysis procedure
This thesis employs Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) to examine the relationship between language and ideologies, uncovering the underlying ideologies within discourse Specifically, it analyzes how ideologies are linguistically manifested in Obama's farewell address and explores the construction of his ideologies through language.
Data analysis techniques are grounded in the theoretical framework of the study, focusing on the examination of linguistic and grammatical features This analysis facilitates a deeper investigation into the ideological assumptions embedded within discourse.
The analysis of the speech will follow Fairclough's theory in three stages: description, interpretation, and explanation In the description stage, the speech will be assessed for its lexical, grammatical features, and overall structure The interpretation stage will focus on the situational and intertextual contexts, addressing key questions about the context, participants, relationships, and the role of language, while also comparing it to other related speeches by Obama Finally, the explanation stage will explore the speech's impact on American society at both institutional and societal levels.
Fairclough’s CDA framework
Fairclough (1989) defines discourse as the entire process of social interaction, with text being just one component He argues that critical analysis should encompass not only the text itself but also the processes of its production and interpretation, alongside the relationships between texts and their social contexts To support this view, Fairclough developed a framework consisting of three dimensions: the text itself (which can include speech, writing, or visual images), discursive practice (the creation and consumption of texts), and the social and cultural context that shapes these practices.
Fairclough's three-dimensional model for Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) outlines three key stages: 1) textual analysis description, 2) interpretation of production and reception, and 3) explanation of the social conditions influencing production and reception This study adheres to Fairclough's framework, as illustrated in Figure 2 below.
Figure 2: Three dimensional framework (Discourse and Social change, Fairclough, 1992:93)
The initial stage of text analysis is description, which focuses on the formal properties of the text, including vocabulary choices, grammatical structures, and overall text organization This stage is crucial as it reveals not only linguistic features but also the ideological implications, identity, and social power of the represented agents Fairclough (1989) emphasizes that this descriptive phase examines these formal aspects in detail and provides a framework of ten primary questions, along with several sub-questions, to guide the analysis of vocabulary, grammar, and text structure.
1 What experiential values do words have?
- What classification schemes are drawn upon?
- Are there words which are ideologically contested?
- Is there rewording or over-wording?
- 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?
5 What experiential values do grammatical features have?
- What types of process and participant predominance?
- Are processes what they seem?
- Are sentences active or passive?
- Are sentences positive or negative?
6 What relational values do grammatical features have?
- What modes (declarative, grammatical question, imperative) are used?
- Are there important features of relational modality?
- Are there 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 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 control the turns of others?
10 What larger-scale structures does the text have?
The second stage of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) focuses on the interpretation of texts, examining the interplay between text and interaction as a product of production and a resource for interpretation (Fairclough, 1989) This stage requires analysts to explore the context, the participants involved, the relationships at play, and the role of language It emphasizes the need to analyze specific language use within fields like advertising, politics, or feminist discourse Additionally, CDA investigates how audiences engage with existing discourses to derive meaning from texts (Jorgensen and Phillips, 2002, p.66).
In the interpretation stage, discourse is viewed as both text and a discursive practice, emphasizing the importance of analyzing linguistic features and text structure alongside factors like speech acts and intertextuality that connect the text to its context This perspective encompasses two key processes: the institutional process, which involves editorial procedures, and the discourse process, reflecting the changes a text undergoes during production and consumption To enhance understanding of the discourse process, this stage examines intertextual relationships among discourse, texts, and their settings.
In short, the interpretation process is summarized as the following figure:
Figure 3: Interpretation (Language and power, Fairclough, 2001:119)
The third level of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) focuses on the relationship between interaction and social context, emphasizing how social factors influence the production and interpretation of discourse, as well as their societal impacts, according to Fairclough.
In 1989, this stage focuses on elucidating the connections between various processes and the social, cultural, environmental, and historical conditions surrounding them Additionally, it aims to explore and clarify the overlooked aspects of power, ideology, and language through two key contexts: the institutional context and the societal context, as highlighted by Fairclough.
1995) In the stage of explanation, discourse would be seen as part of social practice, pointing out how it is determined by social structures more precisely
In the final stage of discourse analysis, researchers must apply social and cultural theory to investigate the relationship between language and socio-cultural practices This involves considering factors such as ideology and power to thoroughly understand how social and cultural contexts influence the creation and interpretation of texts.
Figure 4: Explanation (Language and power, Fairclough, 2001: 122)
In short, the chapter Methodology mentions the reasons to choose the topic and data collection techniques, data analysis procedure of Barack Obama‘s farewell address and Fairclough‘s CDA framework.
FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION
Textual analysis
Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States, served two terms from January 2009 to January 2017, making history as the first African-American president With a diverse heritage of a black African father and a white American mother, his influence resonates deeply within both African and American communities Recognizing the significance of his words, Obama carefully crafted his farewell address delivered on January 10, 2017, in Chicago, particularly after a divisive election, to express his ideologies and the power of unity.
President Barack Obama's farewell address marked the conclusion of his presidency and aimed to inspire hope for the future following Donald Trump's electoral victory, despite Hillary Clinton winning the popular vote This outcome led to widespread despair and protests among many citizens As a Democrat, Obama sought to reassure the American public and facilitate a smooth transition of power He chose to deliver his speech in Chicago, his hometown, rather than the traditional setting of the White House, fostering a warm and supportive atmosphere This choice allowed him to connect more personally with his audience, who were seen as his loyal supporters, enabling him to express his vision and values comfortably.
In his farewell address, President Obama emphasizes the importance of democracy, urging the American people to uphold democratic values and believe in the system He highlights the need for improvement in the state of democracy and commends the citizens' capacity to enact positive change for future generations Through a blend of organizational patterns, rhetorical devices, and stylistic choices, Obama calls on citizens to maintain their faith in democracy while warning against divisiveness among Americans of different backgrounds He also cautions those who oppose the ideals of freedom and democracy, asserting that America will continue to defend its unity Overall, Obama's linguistic strategy serves to showcase his ideology and effectively persuade the audience to embrace his political perspective.
Analysis in terms of vocabulary
From Fairclough‘s perspectives, vocabulary would be analyzed in terms of three types of values: experiential, relational and expressive
Norman Fairclough (2001) emphasizes that "experiential" features in a text reflect how the author's experiences of the natural or social world are represented, serving as indicators of the underlying content, knowledge, and beliefs.
In his farewell address, President Obama urges Americans to actively participate in politics and community life to uphold democracy He acknowledges the challenges faced by citizens, expressing his concerns about the difficulties they encounter.
Yes, our progress has been uneven The work of democracy has always been hard
When mentioning some issues of America‘s democracy above, the speaker expresses his apology to the Americans and also gives great accomplishment of the
US coming after Moreover, the President cites Thomas Jefferson‘s saying in the Declaration of Independence (1776) so as to present the civil right:
It's the conviction that we are all created equal, endowed by our Creator with certain unalienable rights, among them life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness
The famous saying of an ancestor highlights the interconnectedness of the past, present, and future while addressing human rights as a national concern in the U.S The speaker's negative perspective is evident through terms like "threatens solidarity," "shrinking world," and "growing inequality," which underscore issues such as stark inequality and the plight of laid-off factory workers In contrast, President Obama paints a positive image of America's achievements by employing a variety of synonyms and antonyms, effectively showcasing the strengths of the nation and its people.
My fellow Americans line 5, line 349
Our nation line 28, line 35, line 109
Our fellow citizens line 47, line 150
This table above shows a number of words and phrases which all refer to the U.S country and people
Moreover, with a view to strengthen his ideology, the US President also applies antonym in his speech Here are some examples for antonym in his farewell address: App.1:
Open up (line 46) >< shut down (line 47)
Two steps forward (line 41) >< one step back (line 41)
Growing, rising (line 81, 82) >< falling (line 83)
Poverty (line 83) >< the wealthy (line 83)
In his speech, President Obama highlights the challenges facing America while also showcasing the nation's accomplishments, effectively using antonyms to create a vivid contrast Additionally, he employs hyponymy to further enrich his message and convey his ideological perspective.
We must remain engaged in global struggles to promote democracy, human rights, and the rights of women and the LGBTQ+ community Despite the imperfections in our efforts, neglecting these values undermines America's defense Combating extremism, intolerance, and authoritarianism is intrinsically linked to resisting nationalist aggression.
These words ― extremism”, “sectarianism”, “chauvinism”,
“authoritarianism”, “nationalist aggression” are hyponymous They refer to big global battles which Americans fight against to defend America
The concept of "relational value" highlights how word choice in a text influences and fosters social relationships among participants According to Fairclough (1996), "formality is a common property in many societies of practices and discourses of high social prestige and restricted access" (p.65) This is exemplified by the President's use of formal language in his 2017 farewell address, which not only demonstrates respect for his audience but also reinforces his authoritative position.
The power of faith line 15 the quiet dignity line 15
Flawless line 36 peaceful protest line 142
Willingness line 165 essential spirit of innovation line 183 the honor of my lifetime to be your
Commander-in-Chief line 210 a deep debt of gratitude line 211 surveillance line 218
The use of formal language in the President's farewell address reflects his wisdom and concern for the audience, creating a solemn atmosphere This formality not only ensures the speech's politeness but also fosters a closer connection with listeners, effectively conveying his ideological intentions.
Expressive value refers to a formal feature that serves as a trace and cue of the producer's evaluation of the reality it addresses, particularly concerning subjects and social identities Essentially, it reflects the text producer's assessment of social reality (Fairclough, 1996, p.93).
In the speech, expressive value is shown through the President‘s evaluation of
In the U.S., individuals have a vital role in community life, and the key to addressing societal issues lies in the solidarity of the American people The speaker highlights America's exceptional nature, acknowledging that while the nation has not been flawless, it has demonstrated an ability to evolve and improve the lives of future generations He asserts, "You were the change," recognizing the collective efforts that have made America a stronger nation The speaker emphasizes that "We, the People" can work together through democracy to create a more perfect union However, he also notes that the Constitution, while a remarkable gift, is powerless without the active participation of its citizens.
The choice to defend our freedoms lies within us America is resilient, yet the progress we have made in our pursuit of freedom is not guaranteed.
In his statement, the U.S President emphasizes the crucial role of individual responsibility in shaping the reality of American freedom and democracy He asserts that the relationship between individuality and community is cooperative rather than competitive, with each enhancing the other's strength This cooperation fosters solidarity, a vital element in forming a perfect union This ideology is further illustrated by President Obama's expressive values.
The essence of the U.S President's message emphasizes the importance of individual effort and creativity in pursuing personal dreams, while also highlighting the necessity of collective action for the greater good This ideology suggests that personal endeavors contribute significantly to the overall improvement of society.
Regarding metaphors used in the speech, the word ―heart‖ is repeatedly said several times with a view to inferring people Here are examples for illustration of the use of metaphors:
Change occurs when everyday individuals unite and actively participate in the democratic process After serving as your President for eight years, I remain convinced of this principle It embodies the essence of the American ideal—our courageous experiment in self-governance.
- But laws alone won't be enough Hearts must change (line 127)
Another metaphor in Obama‘s farewell address is illustrated through the word
- America is no fragile thing But the gains of our long journey to freedom are not assured (line 247-248, App.1)
- I've watched you grow up, get married, have kids, start incredible new journeys of your own (line 306-307, App.1)
The term "journey" typically refers to the act of traveling from one location to another, and it serves as a powerful metaphor for the experiences of Americans throughout history, reflecting their past, present, and future.
Apart from this metaphor, Obama utilizes another one with the image of
Many individuals find it increasingly comfortable to isolate themselves within familiar environments, such as neighborhoods, college campuses, places of worship, and particularly social media, where they interact only with those who share similar appearances and political beliefs, avoiding any challenges to their perspectives.
Analysis in terms of grammar features
4.3.1 The use of personal pronoun
In the farewell address, the President uses the personal pronouns ―We‖, ―I‖ and ―you‖
Table 3: The occurrence of personal pronoun in the speech
The analysis of the speech reveals that the pronoun "we" is the most commonly used, but I will first focus on the first-person singular pronoun "I," which is likely to present fewer challenges in identifying referential sources.
In his speech, the frequent use of the pronoun "I" highlights his personal connection and intentions, reflecting his trust and hope in the citizens while expressing gratitude towards the American people.
- Michelle and I have been so touched by all the well wishes that we've received over the past few weeks (line 5-6, App.1)
- And every day, I have learned from you (line 10, App.1)
My long-held belief in the ability of ordinary Americans to create change has been fulfilled in ways beyond my expectations, and I sincerely hope that your faith has also been rewarded.
- I will be forever grateful (line 316, App.1)
Besides, the President also uses the first person singular pronoun ―I‖ to give the U.S citizens inspiration and the power of faith through what he has witnessed
- It was on these streets where I witnessed the power of faith, and the quiet dignity of working people in the face of struggle and loss (line 15-16,
- Over the course of these eight years, I've seen the hopeful faces of young graduates and our newest military officers
- I've seen our scientists help a paralyzed man regain his sense of touch
The next pronoun I would like to look at is the second personal pronoun
―you‖ It might make people confused when it comes to terms of referential source since it could have both singular and plural references Almost all the pronoun
―you‖ refer to the audiences or possibly the whole American nation
- You made me a better President, and you made me a better man (line 10-11,
- You were the change You answered people's hopes, and because of you, by almost every measure, America is a better, stronger place than it was when we started (line 50-51, App.1)
- So, you see, that's what our democracy demands It needs you (line 265,
- You are the best supporters and organizers anybody could ever hope for, and
I will be forever grateful Because you did change the world You did (line
- My fellow Americans, it has been the honor of my life to serve you (line 327,
In the speech, the term "you" encompasses not only the audience and American citizens but also includes notable figures such as First Lady Michelle Obama, their daughters Malia and Sasha, Vice President Joe Biden, and his staff.
Michelle LaVaughn Robinson, hailing from the South Side, has been my partner for the past 25 years, serving not only as my wife and the mother of our children but also as my closest friend.
- Malia and Sasha, under the strangest of circumstances, you have become two amazing young women (line 295, App1)
- To Joe Biden — the scrappy kid from Scranton who became Delaware's favorite son — you were the first decision I made as a nominee, and it was the best (line 299-300, App.1)
To my exceptional team, I have been inspired by your energy for eight years, and for many of you, even longer Every day, I have endeavored to mirror the heart, character, and idealism that you consistently demonstrate.
President Obama strategically uses the pronoun "you" to express his deep gratitude towards the American people, including his audiences, family, and staff He acknowledges that everyone, regardless of their background or talent, contributes significantly to building a better and stronger America His message emphasizes that all citizens are invaluable supporters and organizers, for which he is eternally thankful.
This analysis will explore Obama's frequent use of the first-person plural pronoun "we" in his speech, highlighting his emphasis on the unity of the American people By using "we," Obama underscores the idea that meaningful change can only be realized when the entire nation collaborates towards common objectives.
- We, the People, through the instrument of our democracy, can form a more perfect union ( line 23-24, App.1)
- We remain the wealthiest, most powerful, and most respected nation on Earth (line 58, App.1)
In short, whether using ―we‖, ―I‖ or ―you‖, these personal pronouns obviously convey Obama‘s authority, power and also express his own strategy and ideology
The way of using active or passive voice contributes to showing the President‘s implication and ideology
Table 4: Number and percentage of active and passive sentences in the speech
The analysis reveals that active sentences significantly outnumber passive ones, emphasizing the President's goal of inspiring Americans to uphold democracy and believe in the system This approach serves as a warning to those who challenge American ideals of freedom The President seeks to raise awareness about the importance of unity and humanity in preserving U.S democracy By focusing on both vocabulary and grammatical structures, the speaker effectively engages the audience for better communication Although few passive constructions are present, they serve to convey the President's intentions and ideology, as illustrated by a notable example.
- We are all created equal, endowed by our Creator with certain unalienable rights, among them life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness (line 21-22,
The President's statement highlights the significance of human rights as a national concern in the U.S By employing passive voice, the focus is placed on the "unalienable rights" that include "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness," which are inherent to all American citizens and, by extension, to people globally It emphasizes that "we," the people, must actively engage in democracy to safeguard these rights.
―form a more perfect union‖ In short, the civic engagement is of great importance to carry forward the basic premises of the government
In the speech, a notable use of passive voice is evident in the statement, "After all, we remain the wealthiest, most powerful, and most respected nation on Earth." This construction shifts the focus away from who is responsible for realizing the nation's potential, highlighting instead the collective unity of the people The President emphasizes that the future can only be secured through a functioning democracy, which relies on active citizen participation: "Only if all of us help restore the sense of common purpose that we so badly need right now." This underscores the importance of collaboration in achieving shared goals.
A passive voice in the President‘s final point strongly implies his implication: ― Our democracy is threatened whenever we take it for granted‖ (line 232-233, App.1)
Throughout history, there have been significant moments that threaten the solidarity of our democracy The speaker identifies multiple threats, stating, "There's a second threat to our democracy" and highlighting, "this trend represents a third threat to our democracy." Notably, in the conclusion, the speaker omits the agent to emphasize the object of the sentence, drawing attention to the critical issues at hand.
The President expresses deep concern over the threats facing democracy, urging the American people to recognize and defend this vital tradition Through his speech, Obama skillfully utilizes both vocabulary and grammatical techniques to effectively convey his message about the importance of respecting and fighting for democratic values.
Norman Fairclough identifies three primary modes of sentence: declarative, imperative, and grammatical questions In declarative sentences, the President assumes the role of a giver of information, while the audience acts as a receiver The imperative mode positions the President as someone requesting action from the audience, who are expected to comply In grammatical questions, the President seeks information from the audience, who are then viewed as providers of that information In his farewell address, President Obama predominantly employs declarative sentences, utilizing all three modes throughout the speech.
In his declarative mode, the U.S President highlights significant achievements of his administration, including the absence of foreign terrorist attacks on U.S soil, an increase in Americans with health insurance, the legalization of same-sex marriage, and the elimination of Osama bin Laden Through these accomplishments, President Obama aims to inspire U.S citizens to embrace democracy, engage actively in civic duties, and recognize threats to the nation's democratic values.
Besides, only a few imperative sentences are used
- If you're tired of arguing with strangers on the Internet, try talking with one of them in real life
- If something needs fixing, then lace up your shoes and do some organizing
- If you're disappointed by your elected officials, grab a clipboard, get some signatures, and run for office yourself
- Show up Dive in Stay at it
Interpretation process
The interpretation of situational context involves four key dimensions: the events taking place, the individuals involved, the nature of their relationships, and the function of language within the scenario.
The speech delivered by President Obama highlights the interplay between politics and broadcasting, emphasizing the media's significant role in shaping public opinion By effectively utilizing broadcasting, he seeks to rekindle public support and exert political influence His message aims to inspire U.S citizens to uphold democracy and actively engage in political and community life He underscores the achievements of his administration while urging collective efforts to build a more perfect union.
The participants in the speech include both the audience and the speaker, with the audience comprising a diverse group of individuals, including Black Americans, White Americans, and native-born citizens Although political speeches typically feature limited interaction between the speaker and the audience, a video analysis of the event reveals some engagement The discourse reflects underlying assumptions about power dynamics, highlighting President Obama's influential position, as he is aware that his words will resonate with a vast audience This awareness significantly shapes both his language and the content of the speech.
In his discourse, President Obama exemplifies his leadership by maintaining a distinct social distance from the audience, which underscores his authority Unlike many political leaders who subtly convey their ideologies, Obama directly addresses the challenges facing the nation while reaffirming American values His speeches serve as both a call to action and a cautionary message, leveraging elements of conservative discourse—such as faith in God and family orientation—alongside addressing critical issues like economic inequality and racial strife This approach effectively resonates with a diverse range of listeners, including those who may oppose him.
Language serves as a powerful tool for effective communication, particularly in a well-structured farewell address that persuades and inspires the audience Obama's speech exemplifies his skillful use of language to garner public support and establish social control through a shared consensus.
To fully grasp the meaning of President Obama's farewell address in 2017, it's essential to consider the historical context and his previous speeches on democracy and national unity Notably, his Democratic National Convention speech and remarks on Donald Trump's election echo themes of faith in democracy and a call for solidarity among citizens These connections reinforce the importance of unity and democratic values in his farewell message.
As for ―President Barack Obama’s democratic National Convention
In his speech, President Obama expressed unwavering faith in America, highlighting its history of generosity and hope He stated, "I was filled with faith Faith in America The generous, big-hearted, hopeful country that made my story, that made all of our stories possible." As he reflects on nearly two terms in office, he emphasizes his optimism for America's future, declaring, "I am more optimistic about the future of America than ever before."
Obama employs numerous adjectives to commend the American people, highlighting their achievements and the strengths of the U.S system This serves as compelling evidence to inspire younger generations to trust in their predecessors and the established system Additionally, he emphasizes the significance of national unity, stating, "I see Americans of every party, every background, every faith who believe that we are stronger together." This inclusivity—encompassing diverse races, ages, sexual orientations, and abilities—underscores a collective commitment to the nation and its values.
America is a diverse nation comprising various backgrounds, including Black, White, Latino, Asian, and Native American communities Unity among these groups is essential for collective growth and development This perspective aligns with Obama's emphasis on the importance of democracy and national solidarity in fostering a stronger society.
In his remarks on Donald Trump’s election, President Obama emphasizes the importance of maintaining a presumption of good faith among citizens, stating that this principle is vital for a vibrant democracy He asserts that such faith has been foundational to the nation’s progress over 240 years, enabling the expansion of rights and the promotion of freedom both domestically and globally Ultimately, Obama underscores that the unity of the nation empowers society and is crucial for upholding democratic values.
In his farewell address, Obama reinforces his core ideology while introducing new themes, emphasizing the urgent need for citizens to actively participate in preserving democracy He calls for unity among Americans to achieve a more perfect union, highlighting the importance of equality for all To underscore this principle, he quotes Thomas Jefferson from the Declaration of Independence: “We are all created equal, endowed by our Creator with certain unalienable rights, among them life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
Barack Obama, the first African American President of the United States, assumed office during a tumultuous period in American history Over his eight years in leadership, he achieved significant milestones, instilling hope for a promising future for his administration He emphasized that the U.S remains the wealthiest, most powerful, and respected nation globally, highlighting the nation's youth, drive, diversity, and capacity for innovation as key factors that position it for a bright future.
In his speech, the speaker effectively connects the past, present, and future, demonstrating his ability to lead the nation through challenging times with conviction and strength.
4.4.3 The President’s call to believe in nation’s democracy and system
In his speech, President Obama aims to positively frame his presidency while inspiring Americans to uphold democracy and trust in the system This compelling perspective is conveyed through various linguistic features that enhance his message.
Firstly, as mentioned in the description, the President uses lots of antonyms in the speech:
For 240 years, the call to citizenship has inspired each generation, motivating patriots to embrace democracy over oppression, pioneers to journey westward, and enslaved individuals to risk everything for freedom on the Underground Railroad.
- If I had told you that we would open up a new chapter with the Cuban people, shut down Iran's nuclear weapons program without firing a shot (line 44-45)
- And the good news is that today the economy is growing again Wages, incomes, home values, and retirement accounts are all rising again Poverty is falling again (line 77-78))
Explanation
Discourse is considered a form of social action, as highlighted by Fairclough and Wodak (1995) This perspective positions discourse as a crucial component within social processes, influencing both institutional and societal dynamics.
During his presidency, Barack Obama delivered many significant speeches, with the inaugural address and farewell address being the most pivotal The inaugural address outlines his vision and goals for his term, while the farewell address reflects on his accomplishments and invites citizens to evaluate their significance In his farewell address, Obama not only highlights his achievements but also inspires hope among Americans by using language strategically to promote unity and resilience He emphasizes the urgent need for citizens to come together to safeguard democracy and work towards a "more perfect union," instilling faith in the power of collective action.
Exploring the relationship between discourse and social structure is crucial at the societal level, particularly in how speech reflects a leader's ideology and authority In President Obama's farewell address, the use of personal pronouns, especially the frequent use of "we," effectively connects him to the American public, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose By incorporating himself into the collective experience, he emphasizes a collaborative effort toward achieving national goals While he asserts his role as a strong leader, he remains relatable and engaged with his audience, embodying responsibility, determination, hope, and power throughout his message.