Date of Award
2017
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Committee Chair
June Hobbs
Abstract
This thesis explores the connection between genre and the normalization of then-presidential candidate Donald Trump’s varied racist, sexist, and xenophobic comments during the height of the 2016 General Election. Examining the genre of cable news and the network CNN specifically, this thesis analyzes both the broad genre-specific elements and specific instances during CNN’s panel discussions where that normalization occurred. Combining Carolyn Miller’s framework for deconstructing genre, Classical rhetorical devices like stasis theory, Judith Butler’s interpretation of performativity, and pertinent political and historical context, this thesis highlights and examines the impact the “cult of objectivity” had on CNN’s normalization of Donald Trump, with implications for the overall genre.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Citation Information
Shoaf, Amanda Leeann, "Colorblind: How Cable News and the “Cult of Objectivity” Normalized Racism in Donald Trump’s Presidential Campaign" (2017). MA in English Theses. 20.
https://digitalcommons.gardner-webb.edu/english_etd/20