Political rhetoric

From Rugged Individualists to Aggrieved Victims: The Rhetorical Trajectory of the Right

by Paul Elliott Johnson

Forms of grievance and victimhood have always been central to far-right politics. Only recently have mainstream conservative politicians felt free to embrace them without coming off as whiners. 

“Taxpayer Dollars”: The Origins of Austerity’s Racist Catchphrase

by Camille Walsh

The rhetoric of protecting "taxpayer dollars" hinges on a selective interpretation of who pays taxes that reinforces the privilege of affluent whites to have government follow their preferences. 

Why Biden’s Inaugural Address Succeeded

Joe Biden's inaugural address won't be remembered as a masterpiece of rhetoric. But it succeeded in presenting an authentic and realistic picture of Biden's plans to lead the nation in crisis, argues The Atlantic writer. 

The Dying Art of Political Persuasion

by David Bromwich

"The work of changing people’s minds may succeed best when it recalls the affinity of political argument with morals and manners that have become second nature."

Reconstruction Era Expert On Why Politicians Use Terms Unity And Healing

"Reconciliation needs accountability. You can't just wash your hands and say, let's forget about the past and move forward with healing."

Nostalgia and the Tragedy of Trump's Speech at Mount Rushmore

by John Bodnar

Trump's July 3 speech at Mount Rushmore, like his attacks on historians this week, embodied an escapist nostalgia that purges injustice, conflict, and violence. Abraham Lincoln's brand of nostalgia is more worthy of embracing. 

Colorblindness Has Become A Conservative Shield For Racial Inequality

by Frank J. Cirillo

Beginning in the 1970s, white politicians selectively appropriated the dream of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. for a future post-race society by pretending it was already reality, rejecting further action to address racial inequality.

Harsh Rhetoric Tears Us Apart — And Can Make Violence Seem Acceptable

by Charles Holden, Zach Messitte and Jerald Podair

The pugilistic speeches that caused Agnew’s political star to rise also eroded Americans’ bonds of empathy at a time when the nation desperately needed statesmanship.