A critical discourse analysis concerning time magazine's coverage of Taiwan's political power turnovers: Presidential elections in 2000 and 2008

This study aims to analyze how the US media reported Taiwan's presidential elections, particularly how the coverage reproduced or legitimized certain power. By taking as examples of Time magazine's coverage for Taiwan's presidential elections in 2000 and 2008, and based on the approaches of critical discourse analysis presented by Teun A. van Dijk and Norman Fairclough, the study explored the elements of discourse operation in the news articles. The results indicated lots of contrasts among the discourse operation, which could be divided into the following three main aspects: traits of being a leader, victory of winning the elections and support of the public opinion, and possible power and effects of administration. Through the elements and aspects of discourse operation, Time magazine often legitimized the power of "Ma Ying-jeou/ Pan Blue." Based on the analyses, the study also rendered further reflections and suggestions.