The Use of Conceptual Metaphor in the Interpretive Analysis of Political Discourse

What Can a Political Scientist Learn From a Cognitive Linguist?

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.12797/Politeja.21.2024.92.06

Keywords:

interpretive approach, cognitive linguistics, conceptual metaphor, discourse, interpretation

Abstract

This article considers the possibility of integrating conceptual metaphor theory (CMT), developed within the realm of cognitive linguistics, with an interpretive approach to political science. The author demonstrates that the theoretical tenets of cognitive linguistics correspond to the ontological and epistemological foundations of the interpretive perspective. Moreover, he points to the need to consider language and meaning-making linguistic processes as an important area for interpretive analysis in political science and shows how CMT can contribute to this task. Finally, the paper signals possible research objectives of such analyses and the potential areas where they could be applied.

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Author Biography

  • Maciej Bachryj, University of Wrocław, Poland

    From the beginning of his scientific career, his research has focused on various aspects (philosophical, psychological, linguistic) of understanding and interpretation in political science and its methodological implications. Drawing on the belief that the human factor is the primary and basic substratum of the political, he uses theoretical tools adopted from other disciplines to explore the cognitive mechanisms behind political processes and phenomena, as well as individual and collective behaviour.

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Published

09-12-2024

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How to Cite

“The Use of Conceptual Metaphor in the Interpretive Analysis of Political Discourse: What Can a Political Scientist Learn From a Cognitive Linguist?”. 2024. Politeja 21 (5(92): 119-39. https://doi.org/10.12797/Politeja.21.2024.92.06.

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