Stance and Engagement: A Comparative Analysis of Hyland and Fu’s Models

Abstract

This paper explores the models of stance and engagement in political writing as proposed by Ken Hyland and Xiaoli Fu, two prominent figures in the field of discourse analysis. Hyland's model emphasizes the interactional nature of political writing, focusing on linguistic features that facilitate writer-reader relationships, such as hedges and boosters (Hyland, 2005a). In contrast, Fu's model incorporates cultural and contextual factors, highlighting the role of metadiscourse in shaping these interactions (Fu, 2012). By examining their frameworks, methodologies, and applications, this study aims to provide a comprehensive comparative analysis. The paper delves into the theoretical underpinnings of each model, their contributions to the field of discourse analysis, and their implications for political writing across disciplines. Through this analysis, the paper seeks to highlight the strengths and limitations of each model, offering insights into how they can be integrated or applied in various political contexts. This comparative approach not only enhances our understanding of stance and engagement but also provides valuable guidance for educators and researchers in developing effective political writing strategies that are sensitive to both linguistic and cultural dimensions.