Pragma-Rhetorical Strategies in British Parliamentary Argumentative Discourse

Abstract

This study aims at investigating the pragma-rhetorical structure of argumentative discourse in British Parliament. To achieve this aim, Van Eemeren and Houtlosser’s (2002) model of strategic maneuvering is utilized.

Among the important conclusions the study comes up with are: Both figures, i.e. the Prime Minister and Jeremy Corbyn in British parliament utilize certain pragma-rhetorical strategies either to defend or support their standpoints. Besides, Overstatement extends over the other figures of speech and argumentative appeals in British parliamentary discourse and makes the debates highly rhetorical as a result.  Finally, Pathos prevailed other argumentative appeals. This proves that arguers in British parliament resort to feelings and stimulation of the audience’s emotions in making their arguments