Our Greatest National Shame

From Steven Zhang, currently in China:

Nicholas Kristof describes that our greatest national shame is in our education. He believes that education is the most important issue because it has the ability to lead the nation to a better economy. Despite its importance, the education sector in the United States has been falling behind the education sectors of other countries. Though Kristof believes that the stimulus package, which offered over $100 billion to education, provides an opportunity for the nation to reform its education, he also states that money is not the main issue that is facing our education. He argues that in order to improve the education in the United States, we must improve our teachers and our way of screening for teachers.


Kristof uses many rhetorical techniques to present his argument. In this article, he uses a casual tone as if carrying out a conversation to create a mood that is suitable to a common reader. He also builds his credibility by citing professionals and institutions, for example the education department, education secretary, etc. He substantiates almost all of his claims with these sources. Kristof also uses a rhetorical question denouncing those who reject education as a major problem in the United States. Kristof also strengthen his position by offering solutions to the problem he addresses. Professionals in the field of education also support these solutions. Although so far this article seems to be very logos-centric, Kristof also tap into people’s emotions by deeming this problem as a “national shame” and the “greatest injustice”.