Research on Discourse System in China (1998–2023): A Bibliometric Analysis of Discourse System Research in China’s Philosophy and Social Sciences

Over the last two decades, a large body of literature on discourse system has been published in core journals in China, aiming to address the construction of the discourse system, suggesting Chinese academic professionals’ endeavors and social responsibilities to build their own body of knowledge. Using bibliometrics methods, 1,216 articles related to discourse system research in A Guide to the Core Journal of China were analyzed. This article summarizes the overall situation, research hotspots, and trends of research on discourse system in Chinese philosophy and social sciences from 1998 to 2023. It found that the “discourse system” has received growing attention within philosophy and social sciences in Chinese mainland. The related research field has undergone evolution from the nascent stage, exploratory stage, accumulation stage, to the rapid development stage. At present, the research on the discourse system in China’s philosophy and social sciences is mainly grand-theory-oriented, and academic autonomy and disciplinary leadership have been improved. The burgeoning research landscape presents a series of academic initiatives worldwide, standing as a beneficial attempt for Chinese academics to go abroad and the awareness of academic independence in Global South as well.