Discourse Analysis: How Bhutanese Issues are Discussed Online?

Abstract

With the introduction of the Internet, online news sites are encouraging ordinary people to discuss and address their issues. Employing critical discourse analysis approach, this paper analyses the discursive representation of news articles published on tsheringtobgay.com. A critical discourse analysis of articles published on the site reveals that Bhutanese news issues are discussed through two main discursive constructions: the discursive construction of Bhutanese culture and moral responsibility, and the discursive construction of national politics. Within these two constructions, five major techniques are identified by which news discourses are constructed. The analysis concludes that articles published on the sampled site describe the Bhutanese people as being responsible and generous and encourage readers to enhance their mutual understanding, promoting peaceful coexistence in society. However, the news articles are critical of politicians and sceptic about government plans and programs.