Abstract: In its radical impetus, critical discourse studies prioritises what ought to be in seeking social transformation for the benefit of the powerless. By analysing how and why unequal power relations are constructed and reproduced in discourse, critical discourse studies scholars seek change towards a better and more equal world. I argue, however, that the unabashed normativity of critical discourse studies prevents its scholars from engendering such change. That is, without considering competing and intersecting perspectives on the social phenomena under analysis, it becomes largely impossible to evaluate whether good really can be done via any given critique. As such, I contend that an approach embedding pluralism and relativism might enable critical discourse studies scholars to enact the virtues that the discipline extols.
To illustrate the role that pluralism and relativism can play in critical discourse studies, I reflect on my own work at the intersection(s) of language, gender, sex and sexuality. Focusing particularly on transgender discourse(s), including online antagonism and broader discussions of socio-legal recognition, I discuss how critique might consider multiple intersecting power structures and mechanisms in its aims towards social change. Specifically, I consider “winners”, “losers” and un/intentional consequences that might arise from proposed changes to social practice. I contend that accounting for such lateral and intersecting struggles is an ethical imperative in critical discourse studies, which might allow scholars to move recommendations for change from paper to practice.
Bio: Dr Lexi Webster is a Lecturer in Linguistics at Manchester Metropolitan University. Her research thus far has primarily explored transgender Twitter users’ behaviour and language use online, though she has also published and delivered invited lectures on ideological segregation, freedom of expression and the regulation of communication online. Lexi primarily uses corpus-driven approaches to critical discourse studies, focusing on the implications that identity construction/s and cognitive models have for actors, institutions and social structures.
We look forward to seeing some of you there on Wednesday 30th June. All welcome!
