CONTEMPORARY APPROACHES TO RESEARCHING POLEMICS AND POLEMIC DISCOURSE

Abstract

The article is dedicated to identifying the approaches to researching polemic discourse and the general idea of polemics. The concept of "polemic" is explored through linguistic and cultural lenses, considering its definitions in both English and Russian. While in English, it is primarily understood as a form of written argumentation, in Russian, it encompasses a broader range of communicative situations, including debates and discussions. The historical evolution of polemic writing is examined, tracing its origins to religious debates during the Middle Ages. Early polemics were characterized by aggressive language and one-sided arguments, often lacking consideration for opposing viewpoints. Translation played a significant role in shaping these debates, as linguistic barriers hindered mutual understanding. Despite changes over time, modern polemic writing continues to be subjective and aggressive, although contemporary examples often incorporate irony, satire, and grotesque elements. The scientific novelty of this article lies in the fact of addressing polemic discourse from different angles, considering the cultural implications which may influence the dichotomy in researching this study object. Theoretical analysis, comparison, and contrast methods are employed to review the body of research related to polemics, providing insights into its complexity and evolving nature. The practical significance of the research results lies in their contribution to the understanding of polemic discourse, which has implications for communication strategies and cross-cultural communication.