The theoretical foundations of constructing and expressing collective knowledge in political discourse

Abstract

This article explores the theoretical basis of how collective knowledge is constructed and communicated in political discourse through the perspectives of sociocognitive linguistics, discourse analysis, and critical discourse studies. It investigates how shared assumptions, collective memories, social identities, and ideological orientations are conveyed through linguistic resources such as presupposition, personal and collective pronouns, metaphor, evaluative expressions, and framing strategies. Particular emphasis is placed on the capacity of political discourse to influence public understanding, shape interpretations of social and political events, and legitimise particular viewpoints. The article further proposes an analytical framework for a comparative investigation of Uzbek and English political discourse, focusing on common linguistic and cognitive mechanisms alongside features shaped by specific cultural and historical contexts. Rather than presenting empirical findings, the study synthesises theoretical perspectives and establishes a conceptual foundation for subsequent research. Its framework may support further investigations into the complex relationship between language, collectively shared knowledge, and the exercise of political power in different sociocultural environments.