An investigation of linguistic realizations of racism in political discourse

Abstract

This study investigates the linguistic realizations of bias within political discourse, illuminating how language functions as a powerful tool in shaping social perceptions and reinforcing ideologies. The analysis draws on examples from global political arenas, where leaders and media use language strategically to code racial and ethnic identities, often creating divisive 'us versus them' narratives. By employing critical discourse analysis, this research highlights the role of metaphor and coded language in promoting xenophobia and bias, demonstrating how such discourse not only reflects but also perpetuates social inequalities. The findings suggest that political discourse not only constructs social realities but also significantly influences intergroup relations and policy orientations. This study contributes to our understanding of the intricate ways in which language can propagate discrimination and offers insights into the mechanisms through which political power is exercised and contested in multicultural societies. Conflicts are everywhere in the world and media represents them from different perspectives. With the help of politicians' discourse media defines its position and it is a vital tool for successful foreign policy. Each country chooses its side in politics and represents its partner in political discourse based on its own foreign policy and objectives. The main goal of this study is to find out how and why west countries are against to Azerbaijan. The representation of Nagorno-Karabakh conflict during the Second Karabakh war in West media was chosen as a sample for this study. Historical background of the Karabakh conflict, international news of West media, conflict news value and peace journalism have been discussed in the literature review. In this case study, the use of qualitative technique has been preferred. Analysis of the content has been done in order to obtain data. This study examines news reports regarding the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh that appear in Western media. Specific time period Second-Karabakh War was chosen for this research. This demonstrates unequivocally that politicians, journalists and media organizations are not impartial. They mostly combine state objectives, their nation's foreign policy directives, and their own ideological convictions or faith with their reportage.