British Linguistics Professor Norman Fairclough's three dimensional model, also called the 3D

model is a renowned approach for analyzing discourse of any kind. This model could be used to
analyze a piece of literature, some famous dialogues out of a movie, some memorable address by
some important figure, etc. The model has three dimensions: text analysis, discourse practice
analysis, and sociocultural analysis. All three dimensions shall be analyzed in one of America’s
ex-president, Barack Hussein Obama’s Speeches.
In the first dimension, text analysis, only those factors are plucked out analyzed that deal with
the language used. Obama's speeches can be analyzed in terms of its grammatical structure,
lexical choices, and rhetorical devices. One can identify features such as his use of repetition,
metaphors, and analogies. A political leader is someone who can use language to build solid
connections with the public while also manipulating that bond. Numerous researches have been
done on the political speeches made in various contexts. The researchers also note that there are
several personal pronouns (we, our) in the authors' text. They find that using the personal
pronoun helps them establish a strong connection with the audience. In order to reduce the
distance between the speaker and the listener, the first person pronoun "we" is utilized.
According to this study's findings, Barack Obama frequently employs the first-person pronoun
"we" when giving this address. For instance, when he discusses the current pandemic's damage at
the very beginning of his 2019 COVID speech, we can see this evidently. He said:
“We see it in the disproportioned impact of Covid-19 on our communities"
The second dimension, the discourse practice analysis deals with the contextual analysis the
language was produced or is interpreted. One can examine how Obama's speech is produced and
interpreted within its context. For instance, you can analyze his speech delivery, the audience's
reactions, and the historical and political context surrounding the speech. Since leaving the White
House, Obama's standing in society has shifted. By repeatedly referencing their rights and
discussing the brutality they experience, he is speaking in this context as the voice of the Black
Community. He discusses the most contentious subject that the American people have faced
since their founding in the queue below. Here, Obama is solely speaking to Black people by
discussing the trauma they have experienced up to this point. He is referring to the issues that
have gotten worse since the COVID-19 arrived.
“…And let’s be honest, a disease like this just spotlights the underlying inequalities and extra
burdens that black communities have historically had to deal with in this country.”
Finally, in the last dimension, after completing the textual and discourse analysis, the
sociocultural analysis is carried out where the possible effects of the discourse are studied. One
can investigate how Obama's speech reflects the broader cultural and societal contexts in which it
was produced. You can analyze his speech in terms of issues such as race, economic inflation and
his motivation to unite the Americans as one.
Let's take a specific passage from one of Obama's speeches and analyze it in terms of
Fairclough's sociocultural dimension.
Here is a passage from Obama's farewell address in 2017:
"For all our outward differences, we are all in this together; we are one people, and we are one
nation. And together, we will begin the next chapter of our American story, with three words that
will ring from coast to coast, from sea to shining sea: Yes, we can."
Let's begin the analysis of Obama's speech according to Fairclough's model of sociocultural
dimension:
Textual Analysis:
In this passage, Obama uses the phrase "we are all in this together" which emphasizes the
importance of community and unity. This phrase highlights the idea that despite our differences,
we are all a part of the same nation and have a shared future. Furthermore, the phrase "Yes, we
can" is repeated in this passage, which creates a sense of optimism and hope in the listener. It
also emphasizes the idea of collective power and encourages people to work together towards a
common goal.
Discourse Analysis:
Obama is using this speech to reflect on his presidency and to address the nation one last time.
He is highlighting the importance of unity and collective action, which is a recurring theme
throughout his presidency. As such, this passage resonates with his previous speeches and is in
line with his overall political vision and agenda. Additionally, by using the repetition of "Yes, we
can," Obama is trying to create an emotional connection with the listeners and inspire them to
take action.
Social Context Analysis:
Obama gave this speech in 2017, at the end of his second term as President. His presidency was
marked by significant political and social changes, including the election of America’s first Black
president and the implementation of the Affordable Care Act. The use of the phrase "we are all in
this together" is particularly poignant because it was delivered at a time when America was
undergoing significant social and political changes and divisions. It was important for Obama to
emphasize the importance of unity to help bridge these divides and move forward as a nation.
Other than these three dimensions, there are other aspects too from which discourse can be
analyzed. Such as follows:
Historical context: The farewell speech was given as the Obama administration was coming to
an end and the Trump administration was taking office. The verse stresses the importance of
maintaining harmony and inclusivity as the nation develops.
Cultural context: The passage emphasizes that despite our differences, we are all a part of the
same community and country, reflecting the principles of multiculturalism and diversity. This
message was especially pertinent in light of the US's growing diversity.
Power relations: Obama had a lot of influence because he was the outgoing president, but the
paragraph stresses the value of shared authority and teamwork. The affirmation "Yes, we can"
inspires people to accept accountability for their own activities and cooperate to accomplish
shared objectives.
In conclusion, Obama's passage from his farewell speech can be analyzed using Fairclough's
model of sociocultural dimension. The passage emphasizes the importance of unity, collective
action, and hope, themes that are present in his overall political vision. Furthermore, the social
context in which the speech was delivered highlights the significance of the message and
underscores the importance of bridging social and political divides.