Argues that the development of a rhetorical theory for social movements is a lost cause. Examines two questions: (1) how movements differ from other forms of collective behavior, and (2) whether these differences create rhetorical differences. (PD)

Argues that several areas of rhetorical criticism on political speeches need reassessment. These include rhetorical biography, the speaker's purpose, issue analysis, organization or identifying patterns of construction within a speech, and style. (JMF)

Uses Kenneth Burke's writings on the negative in language to account for the rhetorical appeal of the Reagans'"just say no" rhetoric. Argues that this strategy advocates private solutions to public problems, reasserts the authority of the government to define both problems and solutions, and undermines the vitality of the public sphere.…

Claims that Vietnam War protestors were not instrumental in bringing it to an end. Contends that their rhetorical strategies may have actually harmed their cause, and that Middle Americans only became disenchanted when the oft-promised victory in Vietnam proved elusive and the casualties began to mount. (MS)