Communication ETDs

Jason Boys

Publication Date

7-1-2013

Abstract

The following study shows how dialectal tensions in environmental discourse are negotiated and serve to create and sustain the culture of an urban farmers market. Using theories of cultural communication as both theoretical grounding and methodology, the author was able to identify and interpret the functions of tensions previously presented by scholars in the field of communication. The principal set of tensions used for data analysis is the three dialectics presented by Milstein (2009) — mastery/harmony, othering/connection, exploitation/idealism. Upon analysis of these dialectics, a reoccurring theme emerged — discursive tension between economic advancement and community advancement. Cultural discourse analysis points to ways in which the use of these dialectics and this reoccurring theme under tension not only create the culture at this market, but also work to sustain it by generating increased levels of attendance and participation.

Language

English

Keywords

environmental communication, ethnography of communication, dialectics, cultural discourse analysis

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Communication

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Department of Communication and Journalism

First Committee Member (Chair)

Hendry, Judith

Second Committee Member

Agar, Michael

Third Committee Member

Foss, Karen

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