With the eyes of the world watching South Africa, this book provides a unique window on the transition to democracy through an analysis of the practice of power in language.

The book shows how discourse perspectives can provide a framework for critical intervention and radical political engagement. The first part focuses on discursive expression of the process of dismantling the apartheid regime. Part two addresses issues of gender and sexuality in popular cult, everyday talk, counselling practice and preventative health policy - issues historically framed within racialized discourses.

The third part explores methodological issues arising from discourse analysis in South Africa, while the final section explores the wider context of using this kind of analysis for supporting change. Throughout, the contributors address different varieties of oppression as they are present in South Africa today.