Abstract

FRAMING THE PUBLIC DEBATE OVER THE CROSS-STRAIT ECONOMIC COOPERATION FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT

Hsiu Ching Ko

Volume: 5 Issue: 4 2015

Abstract:

This study examines how frames were used in President Ma Ying-Jeou’s political discourse in the ECFA debate with Tsai, the Chairperson of the Democratic Progressive Party. Scholars portray framing as an optimal rhetoric strategy and weapon against a political opponent that can influence and shape public opinion. In the present study, President Ma Ying-Jeou’s discourse in the ECFA debate with Tsai is analyzed with respect to diagnostic, prognostic, and motivational framing. Results show that safety, responsibility, crisis, and incompetence frames are the primary strategies that Ma Ying-Jeou utilizes to gain public support for signing an ECFA with China during the debate.

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