In[vest]spiration and money-vation: Consumerism discourses of inspirational speakers

Abstract

This study aims at analyzing the discourse of three inspirational speakers in their motivational speech through paid seminars, podcasts, and blogs. The researcher utilized Critical Discourse Analysis in order to determine how ideologies are exploited in motivational speeches through linguistic strategies such as rhetorical devices, discursive strategies, and intertextuality in order to establish themes of enterprise discourse. It has been found out that inspirational speakers take on 3 roles namely counsellor, expert, and mentor while transforming their audience into success-seeking, problematic consumers who constantly need guidance, empowerment, and affirmation in this disempowering world. The underlying assumption of this study relies on the principle of CDA in which discourse functions as an emancipatory tool for the weak, the victim, and the oppressed.