Abstract
First, a suggested definition of discourse: at its most general, discourse can be understood as any system of signs, whether spoken, written, or otherwise. I say 'otherwise', because it is possible to 'read' town planning or architecture, for example, as systems that reflect and enact political values and practices. Some use the term a little more specifically; so, for example a phrase such as 'medical discourse' implies an organised and more or less self-conscious system of concepts and language practice which reflects and is supported by an institutional base. Some while ago, Ian Parker set out certain characteristics of discourse and, importantly, questioned any notion of a simple distinction between discourse and 'reality' - something that can be comprehended outside of discourse.
Published Version
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