S6 Episode 1: Human-nature Connectedness, and Positive Discourse Analysis with Ben Clarke
In this episode of the Language and Power podcast, we talk with Ben Clarke from the University of Gothenburg about his research on biophilia - human-nature connectedness - and common ground. Ben explores how communication and discourse play roles in addressing environmental issues and argues for the interconnectedness of democratic processes and ecological problems. We discuss the importance of how nature is represented in discourse, examining how language can foster empathy and better relationships with the environment. Through detailed examples and analysis, Ben discusses the potential impact of framing and metaphors on public perception and behavior towards climate-conscious actions. Finally, we touch upon the upcoming European Systemic Functional Linguistics Congress in Gothenburg, focusing on environmental sustainability and the future of positive discourse analysis.
00:39 Exploring Biophilia and Common Ground
01:56 Digital Democracy and Environmental Representation
03:16 Interconnection of Democracy and Environmental Issues
04:40 Common Ground in Communication
07:46 Designing Biophilic Digital Spaces
10:07 Biophilia and Human Wellbeing
12:55 Psychological and Intergenerational Connections to Nature
18:13 Linguistic Approaches to Environmental Messaging
21:18 Exploring Metaphors in Discourse
21:39 Psychological and Big Data Approaches
23:05 Stakeholders in Environmental Communication
24:04 Textual Analysis of Nature Discourse
27:36 Common Ground in Environmental Texts
33:44 Impact of Activists on Political Discourse
37:31 Positive Discourse Analysis and Future Directions
34th European Systemic Functional Linguistics Conference (ESFLC34): Ecosocial Environment