PRESUPPOSITIONS IN THE SPEECH BY THE U.S. SECRETARY OF DEFENSE AT THE SHANGRI-LA DIALOGUE 2022: A CRITICAL DISCOURSE ANALYSIS

Abstract

This research analyzed the application of presuppositions in disclosing the information in the
speech by the U.S. Secretary of Defense at the Shangri-la Dialogue 2022 through the lenses of
Critical Discourse Analysis. With keen observation of the linguistic choices, the research analyzed
how presuppositions contribute to revealing the hidden meaning in constructing strategic
narratives. The findings revealed that presuppositions played a critical role in supporting ideological
positions, positioning the U.S. and its allies as champions of stability, international law, and
cooperation, while groups against them are presented in a subtle manner as being against such
ideals. In this analysis, the research points out the role of presuppositions in language as a means
to limit perceptions and justify policy positions in international security discourse.