Exploring the Metaphorical (De)Construction of Legitimacy: Metaphors of Legitimation in Political Theory and Public Discourses (original) (raw)

The paper examines the role of metaphors in the construction and deconstruction of legitimacy within the contexts of political theory and public discourse. It argues that metaphors not only shape political narratives but also influence public perception and understanding of legitimacy. The analysis reveals the complexity of metaphors in political communication, differentiating between their cognitive functions and the potential for manipulation, and highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to legitimacy studies, particularly in light of changing democratic contexts.