Construction of Climate Identity of Britain and America Based on Discourse-historical Analysis

Abstract

Climate change has always been the focus of the international community, and the construction of national identity in the field of climate is closely related to discourse power. Based on discourse-historical analysis, this paper analyzes the speeches delivered by American and British leaders at the 26th and 27th Conferences of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change through nomination strategy and predication indication strategy. It is found that Britain constructs its national identity as an active advocate and the United States constructs its national identity as a trustworthy world leader. National identity, national power, and discourse restrict and influence each other. This paper adds a reference for other countries to build their identity and enhance their national discourse power in climate diplomacy.