Corpus Linguistics uses specialised software to analyse language in terms of the patterns found in large collections of texts. Any approach to how language works, including syntax, language acquisition, semantics, and so on, can make profitable use of the tools of corpus linguistics. This session will illustrate how the power of CL software can be harnessed to answer questions about the ideological content of texts, to reveal patterns in representation and persuasion. While critical discourse analysis traditionally poses qualitative questions about the reflection and perpetuation of world view in patterns of language choices, this methodological combination enables the researcher to back up their analytical insights with statistical evidence, and to interpret data more objectively.
Reading
Examples of studies using this methodological combination:
Caldas-Coulthard, C.R., & Moon, R. 2010. ‘Curvy, hunky, kinky’: Using corpora as tools for critical analysis. Discourse & Society 21(2), pp. 99-133.
Hunt, Sally. 2015. Representations of gender and agency in the Harry Potter series. In Baker, Paul and McEnery, Tony (ed.) Corpora and Discourse Studies. Palgrave Advances in Language and Linguistics Series.
Jaworska, S. 2018. ‘Change but no climate change: discourses of climate change in corporate social responsibility reporting in the oil industry’. International Journal of Business Communication, 55 (2). pp. 194-219.
Textbooks for future reference:
Baker, Paul. 2006. Using corpora in discourse analysis London, New York: Continuum
Baker, Paul and McEnery, Tony (ed.) 2015. Corpora and Discourse Studies. Palgrave Advances in Language and Linguistics Series.
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