The Politics of Sacred Rhetoric: Absolutist Appeals and Political Persuasion

In a profound revelation of what truly undergirds modern political rhetoric, Morgan Marietta shows that the language of America’s leaders often relies on deep, even sacred, ideals. The Politics of Sacred Rhetoric is a comprehensive and detailed survey of the rhetorical tactics employed even among the highest government offices as tools of political persuasion. Through careful analysis of the use of absolutist claims—and appeals to what a speaker deems to be universal truths—Marietta uncovers the sometimes subtle ways in which politicians employ this "sacred rhetoric" and demonstrates its impact on citizens’ reasoning, public discourse, and the very nature of American democracy.