A Critical Discourse Analysis of Human- Artificial Intelligence Relationships in Selected Texts of Novel "Machines Like Me" by Ian McEwan

Authors

  • Asst. Lect. Saja A. Hadi Department of English, University of Wasit, Wasit, Iraq Author
  • Asst. Lect. Bushra A. Hassan Department of English, University of Wasit, Wasit, Iraq Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31185/wjfh.Vol22.Iss3/Pt1.2016

Keywords:

CDA, human-artificial intelligence, Machines Like Me

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between humans and artificial intelligence in Ian McEwan’s novel Machines Like Me through Norman Fairclough’s three-dimensional model of Critical Discourse Analysis (1995). The research uses a qualitative method to analyze seven selected passages from the novel at the textual, discursive, and sociocultural levels. The findings show that the novel presents artificial intelligence as both similar to and different from humans, questioning the traditional idea of human superiority. The analysis also highlights how language and narration construct themes such as consciousness, identity, and ethical responsibility. In addition, the interactions between human and AI characters reflect social concerns about the effects of advanced technology on human life. The study concludes that literary discourse plays an important role in shaping people’s understanding of artificial intelligence and its place in modern society.

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Author Biographies

  • Asst. Lect. Saja A. Hadi, Department of English, University of Wasit, Wasit, Iraq

    Asst. Lect.

    Department of English

  • Asst. Lect. Bushra A. Hassan, Department of English, University of Wasit, Wasit, Iraq

    Asst. Lect. 

    Department of English

References

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Published

2026-08-01

Issue

Section

European languages and literature

How to Cite

Hadi, S. A., & Hassan, B. A. (2026). A Critical Discourse Analysis of Human- Artificial Intelligence Relationships in Selected Texts of Novel "Machines Like Me" by Ian McEwan. Wasit Journal for Human Sciences, 22(3/Pt1), 873-859. https://doi.org/10.31185/wjfh.Vol22.Iss3/Pt1.2016