Cognitive and Pragmatic Potential of the Language of Political Leaders

Abstract

The article focuses on linguistic reference as a crucial process for meaning creation in political discourse. From the perspective of its function in establishing associative connections, influencing the audience's perception, and shaping political reality, linguistic reference is examined. The study covers both a practical examination of the use of references in political documents and speeches and a theoretical investigation of the concepts and forms of references. The roles of reference in influencing public opinion, establishing the speaker's authority, and creating pictures that appeal to the historical and cultural context are all given special consideration. As a methodological foundation, content and discourse analyses enable us to spot trends in reference usage based on the political context and the intended audience. Additionally, the study investigates how explicit and implicit references contribute to the ideological framing of political discourse, reinforcing or challenging dominant narratives. The strategic selection of references can serve as a tool for persuasion, manipulation, or legitimization of certain viewpoints. By analyzing key speeches and documents from various political actors, the research demonstrates how references to history, literature, or shared cultural symbols enhance the persuasive impact of discourse. The findings emphasize the necessity of a critical approach to reference analysis in political communication. This study provides valuable insights for scholars and practitioners in linguistics, political science, rhetoric, and media studies.