The use of modal verbs in political debates

Language is not only a means of interpersonal communication, but also a vital instrument of political communication. Politics, being the science and art of government, involves the expression of convictions and opinions by different parties; political communication, therefore, plays an important role in the transmission of information between political institutions, politicians, the news media and members of the public, which may in turn affect the attitudes, perceptions and behaviors of each of these parties. Language is interrelated with politics and power as a medium for initiating, justifying, legitimizing and coordinating action; reconciling differences, negotiating conflict, and affirming diversity; as well as for achieving recognition and gaining power through discussion and persuasion in the political process (Wodak and Forchtner, 2017). The use of language in politics, thus, provides a rich source of insights on how language is used by those who wish to gain, exercise and keep power (Beard, 2000).