Introducing Jameson to critical discourse analysis. Issue 2 (14th March 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Collin, Ross
• Is Part Of: Critical discourse studies. Volume 13:Issue 2(2016)
• Page Start: 158
• Page End: 173
• Publication Date: 2016-03-14
• Subjects: Discourse analysis -- critical theory -- Jameson -- contradiction -- capitalism; Critical discourse analysis -- Periodicals; 300
• DOI: 10.1080/17405904.2015.1042393
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1740-5904

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This article integrates into critical discourse analysis (CDA) concepts developed by the Marxist literary critic Fredric Jameson. These concepts include Jameson's theories of contradiction, mode of production, and social formation. By taking up Jameson's ideas, it is argued, researchers can strengthen CDA's underdeveloped theories of contradiction and historical change. Furthermore, this article shows how Jameson's theories can sharpen CDA's methods of studying texts. By taking a Jamesonian tack and viewing each text as offering 'an imaginary resolution of a real contradiction', researchers can track how antagonisms in the social order shape and are shaped by processes of textual production. Additionally, by foregrounding contradictions and resolutions, researchers can see how texts participate in processes of historical change. To demonstrate a Jamesonian version of CDA, this article concludes with an analysis of a text that charts a course through neoliberal capitalism.