Argues that the emergence and popularity of talk radio should inform students of public argument about current rhetorical practices. Considers two interrelated themes: lack of a viable civil society able to serve as a mediating force between market excesses and the government's distance; and the absence of public space to provide opportunity for…

States that changes in the United States Senate evolve slowly and idiosyncratically. Discusses Rick Santorum of Pennsylvania's violation of the Senate's style of rhetorical decorum. Concludes that, while clinging to the customs of the past and slowness of pace that distinguish it from the House of Representatives, the Senate has not escaped the…