Construction of 'subjectivity' in Hard News Reports: appraisal framework

 

The construction of subjectivity in hard news reports involves understanding how journalists subtly inject their perspectives, biases, or attitudes into ostensibly objective reporting. The appraisal framework, specifically designed for linguistic analysis, helps identify and analyze evaluative language in texts. Here's how you can apply the appraisal framework to explore the construction of subjectivity in hard news reports:

1. Attitude System:

   • Affect: Look for language that conveys emotions or sentiments. Journalists may use words that subtly express approval, disapproval, enthusiasm, or concern. Pay attention to emotionally charged adjectives or adverbs.

   • Judgment: Identify instances where value judgments are made about the significance or importance of events. Analyze how the language used frames certain facts or events as positive or negative.

2. Engagement System:

   • Appreciation: Examine the reporter's stance towards the events or individuals in the news. Consider whether there is a positive or negative appreciation expressed, and how this affects the overall tone of the report.

   • Aversion: Look for language that signals disapproval, criticism, or negative attitudes. This could manifest in the choice of words, the framing of quotes, or the overall tone of the news piece.

3. Graduation System:

   • Force: Assess the degree of certainty or obligation conveyed in the language. Journalists may use strong or tentative language to influence the reader's perception of the information's reliability.

   • Focus: Analyze how the language intensifies or diminishes the importance of certain elements. Consider whether certain aspects are highlighted or downplayed, and how this affects the overall emphasis in the news report.

4. Heteroglossia:

   • Explore the presence of multiple voices or perspectives within the news report. Identify the sources quoted, expert opinions, and any conflicting viewpoints. Analyze how these voices contribute to the overall subjectivity of the report.

   • Consider how the journalist navigates and presents these different voices. Assess whether there is a balanced representation of perspectives or if certain voices are privileged.

5. Dialogism:

   • Examine how the news report engages in a dialogue with various viewpoints. Analyze the interplay between direct quotes, paraphrased statements, and the reporter's own commentary.

   • Consider whether there is genuine dialogue, conflict, or negotiation of ideas within the news report. Dialogism highlights the dynamic nature of language and the interaction of different voices.

Applying the appraisal framework to the analysis of hard news reports allows for a systematic examination of the language used by journalists and helps uncover the subtle ways in which subjectivity is constructed. By identifying evaluative language and understanding the interplay of voices, one can gain insights into the underlying perspectives shaping the news narrative.