Changes of News Discourse in Editorials in China—Based on the Study of Chinese-language Editorials of Global Times

News discourse in editorials in China has undergone major changes. First, there is a shift in the discourse style. Editorials used to be serious, rigid and dogmatic, following one-way information flow, usually from the government down to the public. Now the news discourse moves toward a flexible style, working two-way communication by integrating public opinion into the editorials. Second, the editorial topics are more diversified. Not only political issues but also public concerns are given due attention to. Some topics once thought taboo have entered the public debate and editorials provide an unprecedented platform for the expression of such opinions. These changes instill a new life to the editorial and further build the editorial into a new public opinion sphere.