| Synopsis: |
Digital Discourse Analysis and Participatory Media explores mechanisms of discourse and power on social media. KhosraviNik and Kelsey adopt interdisciplinary transnational perspectives on current debates about the role of social media in society. They provide case studies of interest to those within (and beyond) the field of critical discourse studies (CDS). By proposing a unique model for understanding the multiple mechanisms of macro and micro power on social media this book develops an innovative approach to CDS that is appropriate for future research. Despite changes in the media landscape, 'traditional' approaches to critical discourse analysis (CDA) continue to be relevant, valid and applicable in our understanding of discourse and power in digital contexts. Yet, as the authors show, the continual expansion of digital media technologies has impacted upon the complex power relations of media and society. The case studies in this book show that countercurrents of power and resistance are often exercised through social media. However, these countercurrents are equally opposed by extensions of traditional social hierarchies and institutional powers that have evolved to transcend online and offline environments. As a socially oriented critical study of communication, this book argues that CDS cannot shy away from accounting for changes both at the micro-analytical and macro-contextual dynamics. Following their previous research on the discursive practices of power, ideology, language, surveillance and social media, Kelsey and KhosraviNik show how CDS can continue to adapt and evolve by accounting for digital media discourses. |