NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF STUDY AND RESEARCH IN LAW

RANCHI

Research Paper: Language and power in political

discourse
Submitted to: Submitted by:

Dr. Gunjan Shubhangi Singh (sec. A)

Assistant Professor Semester-1st

NUSRL, Ranchi Roll number-1497

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Table of Contents

1)Declaration............................................................................................................................3
2)Acknowledgement.................................................................................................................4
3)Abstract..................................................................................................................................5
4)Introduction...........................................................................................................................6
5)what is political linguistics?.................................................................................................8
6) Euphemisms and downplaying in political discourse.......................................................9
6.1) Euphemism: The "Final Solution".............................................................................9
6.2) Downplaying: The Language of Deception................................................................9
7) Loaded language and demonization.................................................................................11
7.1) Demonization: Creating an "Un-American" Other................................................11
7.2) consequences and the aftermath................................................................................12
7.3) Demonization during the anti-Sikh riots of 1984.....................................................12
8) Nationalistic language and otherization..........................................................................14
8.1) Nationalistic Language: Creating an "Us" vs. "Them" Narrative........................14
8.2) Otherization: Dehumanizing the Tutsi population..................................................14
9) Repetitions and Slogans.....................................................................................................16
9.1) Repetition.....................................................................................................................16
9.2) Slogans:........................................................................................................................16
10) Dog whistle politics..........................................................................................................18
10.1) Dog whistle elements.................................................................................................18
10.1.1) Law and order....................................................................................................18
10.1.2) Welfare reform...................................................................................................19
10.2) Impact........................................................................................................................19
11) Conclusion........................................................................................................................20
12) References.........................................................................................................................22

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 1)Declaration

This is to declare that this research paper on the topic language and power in political
discourse, submitted to Dr. Gunjan, Assistant Professor of the English Language at the
National University of Study and Research in Law, Ranchi is an original work done by
Shubhangi Singh, first-semester student of National University of Study and Research in
Law, the batch of 2023-2028. It is also to be declared that for my original work, other
people’s work has been used (including websites, articles, etc.) and has been properly
acknowledged as well as referenced.

I have not made use of any work previously produced by any other student or any other
person to hand in as my own. This particular piece of work has not been submitted for
more than one purpose. The submitted soft copy with all the details is identical to the
hard copy.

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 2)Acknowledgement

Having been entrusted with the golden opportunity to write this research paper has been a
challenging but rewarding experience with new, and ample chances to learn and expand my
already present knowledge about the wonderful subject matter of English or linguistics.

I would first and foremost like to give my sincere gratitude and token of thanks to Dr. Gunjan
for providing me with the chance to work on this intriguing research paper that dwells into
the political as well as power related intricacies of the English language.

Being able to work on this research has given me a renewed sense of admiration and respect
for the aforementioned language and its versatile and ever dynamic nature and, how it plays a
crucial role in shaping our day to day lives on both an interpersonal as well as international
context.

Dr. Gunjan’s constant guidance has proved to be a stepping stone for me in this otherwise
tedious process of writing a research paper and for that I regard him with my heartfelt
appreciation and respect.

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 3)Abstract

This research delves into the multifaceted impact of language power within the realm of
political discourse. The study investigates how language, as a potent tool of communication
and persuasion, shapes public opinion, influences policy decisions, and molds the dynamics
of political engagement. Employing a comprehensive analysis of political speeches,
communication strategies, and rhetoric, this research reveals the profound and pervasive role
language plays in the political landscape.

The findings underscore the power of language to define political agendas, rally support, and
create political identities. Moreover, the study explores how language can be harnessed to
manipulate perception, establish authority, and build international relations. The research
highlights the dual nature of language power, capable of both unifying diverse populations
and exacerbating divisions.

Ultimately, this research underscores the paramount importance of linguistic skill and
strategic communication in contemporary politics, demonstrating how language power can be
harnessed as a formidable instrument in shaping the course of political events and
governance.

Keywords: language power, political discourse, perceptual manipulation, creation of

political identity

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 4)Introduction

As mentioned, and postulated by the reverend Austrian philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein in

his famous saying, “the limits of my language mean the limits of my world.” Language is a
powerful tool that has been used by the human population from time immemorial. It is a
multifaceted and complex subject matter which has permeated almost every possible aspect
of the mortal, human experience be it personal, social, professional or political.

Its influence extends far beyond the mere art of self-expression, permeating almost every
facet of human interaction. The same is the arena of political discourse which spans over an
expanse of the whole wide world, where the potency of language and words become more
evident than ever.

Where words become weapons, shaping perceptions, constructing realities, and wielding
unprecedented power. This paper delves into the intricate relationship between language and
power within the context of political discourse, seeking to unravel the nuanced ways in which
language functions as both a reflection and a determinant of political influence all over the
world.

In the turbulent, unprecedented and dynamic area of politics, no choice of words is ever
arbitrary but is rather a carefully curated and amalgamated set rhetoric which hold the power
of altering perceptions and shaping realities with the powerful devices of persuasion and
authority.

This discourse, characterized by its ever-present dynamism and versatility, plays a paramount
role in the construction of political narratives, the establishment of authority, and the
negotiation of power dynamics within societies. As political actors engage in verbal sparring,

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the language they decide to use becomes a battleground where ideologies clash, alliances
form, and the very fabric of society is woven or torn asunder.

This exploration goes beyond a mere linguistic analysis; it delves into the social and political
ramifications of language and its power. How do political leaders utilize language to shape
public opinion? What role does rhetoric play in the consolidation or opposition of political
power? How do linguistic choices influence the perception of political events and
individuals? These questions underline the urgency of understanding the intricate interplay
between language and power in political discourse.

In the upcoming multiple sections of the paper, we will take on a multidisciplinary and liberal
approach to navigate through historical instances and nuanced case studies to provide a better
as well as upgraded understanding of the content. Through this interesting approach, we will
embark on the adventurous journey to point down the rich tapestry of language power in
political discourse throughout the history and how it shaped public consensus as well as
sometimes change the whole trajectories of societies, both existing and, yet to come.

As stated in the famous words of Rudyard Kipling, “words are, of course, the most powerful
drug used by mankind” we shall investigate further as to the effects of this metaphorical
drug on the whole abyss that is mankind.

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 5)what is political linguistics?

If we were to explain political linguistics in layman terms then, it is basically a

comprehensive, inter-related study of the relations between politics and language. According
to various sources, language plays an irreplaceable role in the formation as well governance
of state, it is an essential aspect for continuous growth of the said state, that is, language is
used as a means to form a state and is enacted in various ways that help achieve political
objectives. Language allows for people in a very large number to communicate with each
other on a large scale to the effect that a state is formed. As language forms the basis of
communication, politics is thus affected by language.

In a more practical sense, political linguistics is a tool of persuasion often used by political
parties and leaders to either amass a certain following or shape the public opinion at large.
Some day-to-day things where political linguistics might be employed are, mass media,
slogans, speeches and rallies to name a few.

There are a few notable, widely studied techniques used specifically for this purpose namely
as follows,

1) Euphemism and downplaying

2) Loaded language and demonization
3) Nationalistic language
4) Repetition and slogans
5) Dog whistle politics

We shall delve into the intricate nooks and crannies of these rather intimidating list of
subjects one by one and simplify each one of them for better understanding with the help of
real historical instances and case studies.

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 6) Euphemisms and downplaying in political discourse

Euphemism and downplaying are linguistic techniques often employed in political discourse
to soften or disguise the true nature of events or policies, thereby manipulating public
perception. Nazi Germany provides a chilling example of how these techniques were used to
mask the atrocities of the Holocaust and ethnic genocide. Lets look at both euphemism and
downplaying one by one in relation to the horrors of nazi Germany to understand the concept
with a deeper clarity.

6.1) Euphemism: The "Final Solution"

One of the most infamous euphemisms in history was the term "Final Solution." Coined
during the Wannsee Conference in 1942, this phrase was used by the Nazis to refer to their
systematic plan for the genocide of millions of Jews, along with other targeted groups such as
Romani people, disabled individuals, and political dissidents. The term "Final Solution"
misrepresented the brutality and horrors of the plan by presenting it in bureaucratic and
administrative terms rather than acknowledging it as a mass extermination campaign.

By employing a seemingly neutral phrase, the Nazis sought to distance themselves from the
morally reprehensible nature of their actions. The deliberate choice of euphemistic language
served to mask the genocide in shadows, making it more palatable for those involved in its
execution and creating a veil of bureaucratic neutrality around the unspeakable crimes being
carried out.

6.2) Downplaying: The Language of Deception

In addition to euphemisms, the Nazis engaged in downplaying the severity of their actions.
They manipulated language to create a façade of normality and to deceive both the German
population and the international community regarding the true nature of their ulterior
motives.

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For instance, concentration camps were referred to using terms like "work camps" or
"relocation centers." These labels downplayed the brutal reality of the camps, where mass
killings, forced labor, and inhumane conditions were the norm. By employing language that
suggested benign purposes, the Nazis downplayed the true intent and brutality of their
actions.

Similarly, acts of mass murder were often euphemized, with terms like "special treatment" or
"resettlement" used to describe the systematic extermination of targeted groups. The
intentional use of downplaying language aimed to minimize public awareness, mitigate
resistance, and maintain a semblance of normalcy during a period marked by unspeakable
and heinous crimes against humanity as a whole.

To conclude our discussion about the first of many techniques employed by people to
obliterate reality, we can see just to what sheer extent, language can play a pivotal and central
role in shaping everyday reality as well as manipulating perception of a community. We shall
now move on to the next technique under the similar umbrella.

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 7) Loaded language and demonization

The next technique we will be discussing about is loaded language and demonization which
are often used in political discourse to reshape public opinions and consensus, often by
attaching strong emotional connotations to specific terms or a group of them.

One widely talked about historical example of the use of loaded language and demonization
is the McCarthy era in the United States during the Second Red Scare in the 1950s.

Lets break down the title and look at it after segregating in into two smaller units for a better
and less complex understanding.

7.1) Demonization: Creating an "Un-American" Other

Demonization was a central aspect of McCarthyism, as the senator and his supporters sought
to create an "un-American" other. McCarthy labeled those he accused as not just having
differential political beliefs, ideologies and ideas but as actively working against the values
and interests of the United States and its people. The demonization extended beyond pointed
individuals to encompass entirety of groups, such as Hollywood figures, intellectuals, and
government officials to name a few.

The use of demonizing language served a dual purpose that in turn gave rise to a dichotomy.
First, it dehumanized those accused, making it a piece of cake to justify harsh and inhumane
actions against them. Second, it created an 'us versus them' mentality, which fostered a sense
of unity among McCarthy's supporters while isolating and vilifying those who were labeled
as subversive or different. This technique was particularly really effective in silencing the
opposition and suppressing dissent, as individuals feared being associated with the
demonized group.

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7.2) consequences and the aftermath

The impact of loaded language and demonization during the McCarthy era was extremely
profound and ever present. Many individuals lost their jobs, reputations were tarnished, and
the feeling of extreme fear permeated the then American society. The manipulative tactics
used by McCarthy had a bone chilling effect on free speech and political discourse, as people
were afraid to express dissenting views for fear of being labeled as unpatriotic or anti
national.

The McCarthy era at its very core, serves as a cautionary tale about the power of language in
politics. The deliberate use of loaded language and demonization can not only shape public
perception but also have tangible, physically felt consequences for individuals and society at
large. This historical example highlights the importance of critically analyzing the language
used in political discourse to have a better grasp about as to how it can be wielded to
manipulate public opinion and undermine democratic principles and ethics.

To understand the concept of loaded language and demonization better, we shall look at
another example with an Indian context and background to increase the overall relatability for
the targeted audience.

7.3) Demonization during the anti-Sikh riots of 1984

One example with Indian backdrop for a more detailed understanding would be that of the
anti-Sikh riots that occurred as an unfortunate aftermath of Indira Gandhi’s assassination in
1984. The anti-Sikh riots are a shameful black spot on the Indian history which tell an unsung
story of communal violence and demonization of the Sikh community as a whole. The riots
were a direct consequence of the then India’s prime minister, Indira Gandhi’s grotesque
assassination by her two Sikh bodyguards as a response to ‘Operation Blue Star’, a military
operation initiated by Indira Gandhi to remove the Sikh militants that had taken refuge in the

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golden temple complex in Amritsar. Gandhis assassination started a domino effect which
gave rise to a movement of communal violence against the Sikh community fuelled by anger
and hatred.

This movement comprised of people demonizing the entire Sikh community be it on a

personal, ideological level or on a more nationwide platform by various news and media
outlets on television. Crowds of angered people started attacking the homes and other
establishments of Sikh people just as a mode of vengeance on their part.

The violence was not only fuelled by spontaneous anger but was also exacerbated and
elevated by the demonization propagated by certain political leaders and elements presented
in the media. The demonized image of Sikhs posed as a threat to national unity and security
contributed to the dehumanization of the community in the eyes of the wrong doers.

This example functions as a stark reminder just as to how the demonization of a certain group
of individuals can lead to long lasting political as well as social divisions which can act as a
threat towards the national unity and solidarity as a whole.

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 8) Nationalistic language and otherization

The third technique which we shall look at is nationalistic language and otherization in
context with the Rwandan genocide. These techniques are deployed by the political groups to
marginalise and isolate certain targeted social and political group due to any reason what may
be.

8.1) Nationalistic Language: Creating an "Us" vs. "Them" Narrative

During the build-up to the Rwandan Genocide, nationalistic language played a pivotal role in
shaping the narrative. The Hutu-majority government propagated an ideology that
emphasized ethnic distinctions, particularly between the Hutu and Tutsi communities. The
use of nationalistic language was undertaken to create a sense of exclusive identity and unity
among the Hutu population.

Nationalistic terms, such as "Hutu Power" and "Hutu homeland," were employed and
propagated to put emphasis on the idea that Hutus were the true custodians of the nation, and
any perceived threat from the Tutsi minority needed to be eliminated and removed for the
preservation of the Hutu-dominated state. This language framed the conflict in ethno-
nationalistic terms, fostering an environment proving to be a safe haven for dehumanization
and violent thought process.

8.2) Otherization: Dehumanizing the Tutsi population

Otherization involves portraying a particular group as fundamentally different or threatening,

creating an "other" that is excluded from the more national consolidated sense of identity. In
Rwanda, the Tutsi population was systematically and intentionally otherized by the Hutu
government. Propaganda and media outlets labelled the Tutsis as "cockroaches" and

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"traitors," dehumanizing them and portraying them as a menace to Hutu dominance,
undermining their human nature and treating them as mere hinderances in the government’s
plan.

By employing dehumanizing language, the government aimed to justify discriminatory

policies and, ultimately, the widely spread mass violence that unfolded during the genocide.
Otherization served to erode the empathy and compassion of people towards the community
making it easier for the perpetrators to commit acts of violence against the marginalised and
wronged Tutsi population.

The horrors of the Rwandan genocide still remain fresh in everyone’s heart as an ever aching
reminder as to how someone can manipulate and use language to fit it into their own narrative
and create a catastrophic sense of doom over those being marginalised and isolated. Such in
real life, tangible examples just highlight the importance for language regulation and
vigilance to keep a check on its misuse for one’s selfish and ulterior motives.

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 9) Repetitions and Slogans

Just as the name suggests, repetitions and slogans are linguistics techniques used to convey
and reinforce messages and ideologies and mobilize the masses at large. One renowned
person that can be referred to as an expert at employing these techniques and using them to
his advantage was, Mao Zedong, the founder of the public’s republic of China, who made use
of these potent and powerful tools to shape the public opinion during the time of his rule.

9.1) Repetition

Mao Zedong frequently made use of repetition as a rhetorical device to emphasize on certain
particular key points and solidify his political as well as ideological messages. This repetition
served as a means to embed specific ideas or slogans deeply into the collective consciousness
of the population at the large. One well documented example is Mao's repetition of the phrase
"Let a hundred flowers bloom, let a hundred schools of thought contend." Which was
initially used as an invitation for intellectuals to express diversified opinions, Mao later
mended his stance, and the phrase became emblematic of political repression during the Anti-
Rightist Movement.

Repetition wasn’t limited as a verbal tool but also a written one, some of Mao’s most famous
and influential sayings and quotations are compiled and arranged in the “Little Red Book”
where, the constant repetition of these quotations in official documents, speeches, and
educational materials reinforced Mao's ideological principles, fostering a sense of unity and
commitment among the population.

9.2) Slogans:
A notable characteristic of Mao Zedong’s regime was his unmistakable liking towards a
profound and prolific use of slogans to encapsulate political ideals and beliefs to mobilize the
masses more efficiently and with a larger impact. Arguably one if not the most well-known
example of such slogans would be the slogan “serve the people”. This concise and to the

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point phrase conveyed Mao’s selfless commitment towards the greater human good in all its
altruistic glory and was intended to inspire the feelings of loyalty and devotion among the
general public.

During the times of the great leap forward, yet another politically charged slogan, “strive to
surpass England and catch up with the United States” was widely used to germinate the
feelings of inspiration and motivation among the common people as well as perfectly
represented Mao’s drive and ambition for economic goals.

The Cultural Revolution, a tumultuous period full of twists and turns as well as economic and
social turmoil initiated by Mao, was marked by slogans like "Destroy the Four Olds" and
"Let a new culture emerge." These slogans worked towards advertising the Maoist ideology
to the public and provided as a basis for what was to come.

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 10) Dog whistle politics

Finally, the last technique we will be discussing about in this research paper is nothing but
“dog whistle politics” which is a subdued and subtle form of communication that makes use
of codified language to convey messages understood by a particular group of individuals
while remaining innocuous and ambiguous to the general public at large. The example we
will be expanding upon to understand dog whistle politics with a deeper understanding is that
of the southern strategy which was initiated by some political persons in the United States in
the 20th century.

To give a better understanding of the crux and context, the southern strategy was a political
strategy used predominantly by the republican party in the 1960’s and 1970’s. It was
formulated to appeal to the white voters’ population in the southern states of the United
States of America who were disenchanted and annoyed by the democratic party’s support for
racial integration and harmony as well as civil rights. This strategy exploited the racial
tensions prevalent during those times to attract a large number of voters who opposed
desegregation and the advancements of the civil rights movement.

10.1) Dog whistle elements

10.1.1) Law and order

 The phrase “law and order” was disguised or dog whistle term which appealed to the
white voters who were concerned about the racial unrest and tensions of that time as
well as the civil rights movement which was at its peak during those times.
 In the presidential campaign of 1968, candidates like Richard Nixon used "law and
order" as a coded message to address racial anxieties without explicitly mentioning
the sensitive debate and banter around race.

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10.1.2) Welfare reform

 Discussions about “welfare reform” were often used as a coded way to appeal to
racial stereotypes, implying that such policies would disproportionately affect the
African American population
 The whole rhetoric around welfare reform during those times (1980’s and 1990’s) was
tapped into to avoid overly mentioning the controversial topic of race.

10.2) Impact

The southern strategy had an unmistakable and significant impact on the political landscape
of the United States. Politicians were able to appeal to the white voters without mentioning
racially fuelled language and were able to lure in white voters who harboured racial hatred
and resentments about the then changing social order. This strategy just goes on to show how
with the power and deception of language used transformed the strictly democratic southern
states to republican hotspots.

Dog whistle politics goes on to show how codified language can be used to subtly shift the
narrative without mentioning contentious issues explicitly. This just goes on to solidify the
inherent need to analyse and uncover the hidden undertones in political discourse which
could perpetuate a sense of social and national unrest and turmoil.

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 11) Conclusion

Through out this detailed and intricate discussion with the help of which we were able to get
a better understanding of the rich tapestry of language in political discourse we can elucidate
how rather than being just a tool for communication and self-expression, language plays a
pivotal role in shaping the political contours of a country.

With the help of this research paper, I was able to explore the intriguing and nuanced
relationship between politics and linguistics and how it comprehensively plays out in the
political arena. From historical instances to contemporary case studies, from linguistic
techniques that construct narratives to the impact of rhetoric on societal perceptions, the
journey through this research has illuminated the multifaceted relationship between words
and the influence they can generate.

Tools of Influence: Linguistic Techniques in the Political Toolbox

Throughout this research, various linguistic techniques emerged as pivotal tools in the
political toolbox. Euphemism and downplaying, as seen in Nazi Germany, revealed the
potency of softening otherwise harsh and blunt language to manipulate public perception.

Loaded language and demonization, exemplified in McCarthyism and the anti-Sikh riots,
showcased how targeted vilification and isolation could be employed for political out casting
and turmoil.

Nationalistic language and otherization, as witnessed in the Rwandan Genocide,

demonstrated the dangerous territory that lies in framing political discourse along ethnic or
nationalistic lines.

Dog whistle politics as we explored in the Southern Strategy, highlighted the subtleties of
linguistic appeals that resonate with specific pockets of audiences while remaining opaque to
the others.

The Implications and Imperatives: Lessons from the Linguistic Landscape

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The implications of this study are extremely profound, as it urges us to recognize the ethical
responsibilities inherent in wielding language as a political instrument or tool. The imperative
lies in developing linguistic awareness and critical discussions. Recognizing euphemisms,
decoding dog whistles, and understanding the impact of loaded language are essential for a
more informed and educated population. Political leaders, media and other people with
influence must grapple with the ethical dimensions of linguistic choices and should normalise
acknowledging that the words they choose to employ and use have real-life consequences.

Conclusion: Navigating the Crossroads of Language and Power

In conclusion, the dynamic relationship between language and power in regards to political
discourse represents a familiar scenario of standing at crossroads where, narratives are
constructed, ideologies are shaped, and societies are influenced. From the employment of
nationalistic and loaded language to the grotesque subtleties of dog whistles, each linguistic
technique leaves an ever-festering mark or wound on the socio-political landscape.

As we stand at this crossroads, we are confronted with a few choices. The choices made in
the words we use, the narratives we construct, and the discourses we engage in carry
profound consequences for the future of our mankind and societies. It is incumbent upon us,
as stewards of language and architects of political discourse, to navigate these crossroads
with responsibility, and an unwavering commitment to the principles that uphold the dignity
and unity of humanity. The study of language and power in political discourse is not merely
an academic pursuit; it is also a call to action and work, urging us, the people to wield the
power of language judiciously, with empathy, and a persisting sense of dedication to the
betterment of civilization all over the globe.

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 12) References

 thoughtco.com
 researchgate.net
 The Nizkor Project - Holocaust History. (https://www.nizkor.org/)
 Propaganda Archive. (https://www.propagandaarchive.org/)
 ukessays.com

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