DOG WHISTLES IN POLITICS: CODED LANGUAGE AND HIDDEN MESSAGES

Abstract

This article explores the phenomenon of dog whistles in political discourse, emphasizing their role as a form of coded language that conveys implicit ideological messages to a targeted audience while preserving apparent neutrality for the broader public. The study analyzes the linguistic structure, pragmatic functions, and psychological mechanisms underlying such communication strategies, as well as their impact on public perception and democratic processes. Particular attention is paid to the ethical implications of hidden messaging and the challenges it poses to transparency and accountability in modern politics.