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Rhetoric Over Reason: The Rhetorical Assault on Education in the Absence of Argument and Evidence in Educational Discourse

Based on an overview of writings published or supported by the Fordham Institute and those associated with it over many years, this article brings together and examines a range of rhetorical tools employed to persuade policymakers and the public of their position. The article argues that in the absence of a reasoned or evidenced position, the rhetorical tools call upon emotions to guide decision making. The result is a form of demagogery. Because they are influential in the public debate on education, it is important that these writings and recommendations be recognized for what they are.