Language Use and Power
Although I enjoy learning about the different methods of
critically conscious research, I am finding some parts of this book hard to
follow due to the “listing” nature of the book (In some parts, the authors seem
to only list the research on a particular subject). Chapters 4, 5, and 6 are no different
In chapter 4, the authors describe the different aspects of
Critical Methodologies. For
example, “Critical Discourse Analysis is a form of discourse analysis that is
inspired by the thinking of Derrida, Hebermas, Gramsci, and Marx among
others. Bloome and Carter submit
that, historically , the term discourse was used as a verb” (52). In other words, the methodology in this
sense is utilized to form a “discourse community.
In chapters 5 and 6, the authors discuss the varying power
structure evident in the varying structures (government, religion, laws, etc);
they also present the different research for the power structures in language
use. The most interesting part was
the research done by Moje, who posited that gang members didn’t utilize
communication to just assimilate to the gang culture, but, instead, they used
language to find meaning with their incomplete identities: “Their language use
indicates willingness to engage of a gangsta lifestyle and reveals aspects of
evolving identities” (92).
Like always, I will try to take what I read and find meaning
with my own work. During the
previous weekend (Marine Corps Birthday and Veterans Day), millions of Veterans
grouped together to celebrate service to our country. With my own experience, I am able to understand the
importance of these two days. This
weekend, my battalion had a reunion and memorial service for our fallen; this
weekend allowed me to notice the difference of comfort, within myself, when faced
with the civilian world and the military world. Although I have become articulated in both, my confidence is
greater in another (the military world).
When understanding that confidence is a key factor with power and
language use, I am able to see the importance of creating a more effective
assimilation program for our veterans.
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