Sketches a brief history of the 1858 debates and analyzes their argumentative patterns. Speculates about the transformation of controversial questions through public debate. (PD)

Using the historic debates as a case study, the author draws inferences about how and why conspiracy arguments become credible and concludes that Lincoln's achievement was strategic and tactical, reflecting an intuitive understanding of how political arguments involving moral questions are discussed in the public sphere. (PD)

Identifies and assesses the values displayed in Lyndon Johnson's communication about the riots during his term of office. (PD)

Examines Lyndon Johnson's rhetoric in bringing about a shift in the concept of "equal opportunity" from nondiscrimination to affirmative action through the process of dissociation. Defines dissociation as separating a unitary concept into parts, identifying the less valued part, and reformulating the more valued part. (JMF)

Discusses the development of the Great Society idea, its central themes, the rhetorical problem of its presentation and resolution. Obstacles to adopting the programs were overcome by employing conservative themes, claiming a moral imperative to act, and distinguishing the Great Society from older programs. (JMF)