TITLE:
Speaking for Her: Public Opinion Platforms and the Construction of Women’s Discursive Space in Chinese Periodical Media Discourse (1921-1949)
AUTHORS:
Xiao Zhang
KEYWORDS:
Feminist Discourse, Chinese Women’s Liberation Movement, Chinese Periodical Media Discourse, Editorial Communities, New Democratic Revolution Period
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Social Sciences,
Vol.12 No.3,
March
11,
2024
ABSTRACT: This study focuses on the role of print media in shaping public opinion
space in China during the New Democratic Revolution period (1919-1949), specifically examining three women’s publications: “Nüxing” (Women’s Star), Women’s Daily, and Zhejiang Women. The
study adopts an approach based on communication studies and sociology, using
primary research materials from archival
microfilm editions. It explores the knowledge
production process within the public discourse space and
the editorial communities associated with these publications. The paper investigates the discursive effects of
editorial and publishing strategies, as well as the strategies of women’s press
and women’s movements during the New Democratic Revolution. It also highlights the significance of public
opinion space formed by print media in influencing society and shaping gender
relations. Overall, the early women’s magazines played a significant role in promoting women’s
liberation and integrating it with labor, state, and class liberation. They
provided a platform for women’s voices, fostering a strong keystone force in
the women’s movement and actively promoting its development. The print media, represented by these women’s
publications, played a crucial role in shaping public opinion space during the New Democratic Revolution
period in China. They provided a platform for women’s voices,
disseminated feminist discourse, and actively contributed to the development of
the women’s liberation movement.