Uncommon Knowledge

Thomas Sowell: Facts Against Rhetoric, Capitalism, Culture—and, Yes, the Tariffs

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Apr 15, 2025
Economist Thomas Sowell, a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution, returns to discuss his new website, Facts Against Rhetoric. He delves into the collapse of educational standards, critiques affirmative action, and highlights overlooked achievements in Black history. Sowell argues for personal responsibility within communities and examines the adverse effects of recent tariffs on the economy. With wit and clarity, he calls for a cultural shift towards valuing fact-based discourse over emotional rhetoric.
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INSIGHT

Facts vs. Rhetoric

  • Thomas Sowell's website, Facts Against Rhetoric, aims to counter rhetoric with empirical evidence.
  • He believes many students are indoctrinated rather than educated, accepting claims without critical analysis.
ANECDOTE

AOC and Lack of Factual Basis

  • Sowell recounts observing AOC making pronouncements without factual basis.
  • He highlights the lack of critical thinking in education, where students memorize narratives without evaluating them.
ADVICE

Teaching Controversial Topics

  • Present students with the strongest arguments from both sides of controversial issues.
  • Test their understanding of both arguments, not just their chosen belief.
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