“Doomed to Extinction”: Framing biodiversity loss as crisis in media discourse

Abstract

This article critically examines the linguistic representation of species extinction and endangerment in mainstream American media. Using Critical Discourse Analysis and ecolinguistics, the study scrutinizes the ideological and linguistic choices made in framing extinction as a crisis. Although drastic language is extensively used, the findings point to a lack of public urgency in addressing the extinction crisis, which stands in contrast to its potentially disastrous consequences. The paper delves into the use of crisis terminology and the portrayal of human agency and responsibility in media discourse on species extinction, shedding light on the subtle biases and framing that influence public perceptions. By analyzing linguistic features and power dynamics, the study highlights the ways in which language functions to shape the (mis)understanding and (un)awareness of extinction and its anthropogenic causes. The study points out the prevalence of market-based solutions and the lack of ecocentric perspectives that foreground the intrinsic value of species and their protection for their own sake.