Mainstream Media and Rhetoric A Discourse Analysis of Prime Time Debates during Pandemic

Abstract

The present study focuses on Mainstream Media and Rhetoric: A Discourse Analysis of Prime-Time T.V. Debates during the Pandemic. The omnipresence of media in the life of common people is significant in affirming attitudes and opinions that are already established. It can also affirm latent attitudes and activate them, prompting people to act or certainly react to the contemporary social issues. newlineAs mobile Internet usage has grown, conventional mainstream media have evolved into new mainstream media, and these media are now more influential than ever in shaping public opinion, influencing media perception, and gaining credibility. Credibility, readership, and news coverage are a few of the variables that affect this transition. newlineIn addition, the mainstream media is used to expressing strong emotions and extreme opinions when covering events for the first time. They also purposefully exploit the curiosity of their audience by highlighting opposing viewpoints in news reports and using a dramatic spread effect to appeal to their preferences, attract attention, and sway public opinion. newlineRhetoric is the art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing, especially the exploitation of figures of speech and other compositional techniques. It is the language designed to have a persuasive or impressive effect, but which is often regarded as lacking in sincerity or meaningful content. Prime Time is the time when the largest number of people are watching or listening the media broadcast and the debates held during this time are featuring opinions from candidates that are relevant contributors to a particular topic of public interest, especially sensitive and serious discussion with overviews as well as perspectives. newline newline