Identity Construction in Some Selected Online Debates: A Conversational Analysis

Abstract

This study aims to reveal the building strategies employed in online debates through conversation analysis. Online arguments are more prevalent in the contemporary digital landscape. The study seeks to underscore the need to examine how individuals shape their ideas and engage in discourse. Identify how the online debates reveal the construction and analysis of selected debates according to conversational analysis theory. The research technique encompasses the selection of online debate as the data collection, by Epstein and Wolff about Capitalism vs. Socialism. . The researcher adopts the conversational analysis theory by Sacks et al. (1970). However, the qualitative study uses theoretical frameworks of production in conversation to uncover patterns and strategies employed by participants. The findings elucidate the approach used in online debates and their potential impact on opinions and shaping discussions. This study provides valuable insights into the unique characteristics of online discourse and the identity construction in the debates. This research improves understanding of constructing arguments in online settings and lays the foundation for future investigations in this evolving field.