Diskursfeld

Diskursfeld is a term used in discourse analysis and related fields to describe the conceptual and social space within which a particular discourse operates. It refers to the set of shared assumptions, knowledge, beliefs, values, and practices that inform the way a topic is discussed and understood within a specific community or context. A diskursfeld is not a static entity but is dynamic and evolves over time through communication.

Understanding the diskursfeld of a topic is crucial for analyzing communication. It helps to identify what is considered acceptable or relevant to say, what is left unsaid, and how arguments are constructed and contested. Different diskursfelder can lead to vastly different interpretations of the same information, as participants draw on different sets of shared understandings. For instance, the diskursfeld surrounding climate change in scientific circles will differ significantly from that in political or public debate.

The concept highlights the social construction of knowledge and meaning. It suggests that discourse is not merely a reflection of reality but actively shapes our understanding of it by providing the framework through which we perceive and interpret information. Scholars examining a particular diskursfeld often analyze the language used, the authorities appealed to, and the common sense notions that underpin the discussion to understand its underlying power dynamics and ideological underpinnings.