Discursive practices of the performative theory of solidarity discourse

Abstract

This exploratory study examined the discursive practices of solidarity discourse, contributing to the performative theory of solidarity discourse. Five discursive practices were identified. It was noted that plurality and assimilation practice, complete assimilation, and partial assimilation were the most frequently employed practices. Assimilation is accomplished using three strategies: inclusive first plural pronouns, collective nouns, and spatialization. The second discursive practice was appraisal. There are three strategies that are utilized by speakers: to appraise and praise the ‘self’ or one's support, to appraise or bash and attack the ‘other,’ and to appraise and praise the ‘us/we.’ The third practice is representation and positioning, which is realized by intertwined representations of the ‘us,’ the common enemy/challenge representation, and self-positioning/representation. Endorsement is the fourth discursive practice to achieve solidarity through which the speaker endorses policies or ideologies to show solidarity. Finally, storytelling is a practice employed to build solidarity, manage knowledge, achieve performative acts, and shape the future through past events. The current paper contributed to our understanding of solidarity and expanded our perspective on discourse in general, and solidarity discourse in particular. In addition, the application of this study can bridge the gap between the ‘self’ and the ‘other’ by addressing the ‘us/we.’