Language and power

Not in any of our papers but things we learn terms from this which we can apply to other aspects of the syllabus

What is power?

Power is dynamic because it changes due to the different scenarios we are in
Why is an individual allowed power in a certain enviroment?

- Physical setting or enviroment is relevant
- There can be power online

Basic terms
- power in discourse is the ways in which power is manifested in language
- power behind discourse is the contextual reasons for the enactment of language
- instrumental power is power used to maintain and enforce authority
- influential power used to persuade or influene others
- political power is power held by government, the police, the law...
- personal power is power held by people as a result of their occupation
- social group power is power held as a result of social variables such as social class

Power in discourse

Constraints - language strategies used to assert power

oppressive discourse strategy- blatant ways to control people like shouting or swearing

repressive discourse strategy - more subtle ways of exerting power e.g. asking quesions which press a subject.