Suggests that the United States Constitution contains nearly universal concepts but also ambiguities which trigger conflicts. Describes the evolution of the document through its framing and through controversy surrounding the Alien and Sedition Acts, state nullification of federal action, and secession. Concludes that the Constitution provides a…

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)

Questions the assumption that movements are insurgent campaigns for change by offering a counter-example which demonstrates that rhetorical characteristics of movements may be replicated within the political power structure. (MH)

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)