Meaning: The quote you've provided is a criticism of President Barack Obama's rhetorical style, specifically his tendency to create and attack "straw man" arguments. The term "straw man" refers to a type of logical fallacy in which an argument is misrepresented in order to make it easier to attack. In this case, the quote suggests that Obama has a habit of misrepresenting his opponents' positions in order to make his own arguments appear stronger.

When Fred Barnes, a journalist, accuses Obama of specializing in knocking down straw men, he is suggesting that the President frequently sets up and attacks arguments that are not representative of the actual positions held by his political opponents. This tactic can be seen as a way of avoiding engaging with the real complexities and nuances of the issues at hand, and instead, creating a simplified version of his opponents' views that is easier to criticize.

In the specific example provided in the quote, Obama is quoted as saying, "I reject the view that says our problems will simply take care of themselves," implying that this is the view of Republicans. According to Barnes, this statement is a misrepresentation of the actual views held by Republicans, and by extension, it is a demonstration of Obama's tendency to set up and knock down straw man arguments.

It's important to note that the use of straw man arguments is not unique to President Obama or any specific political party. This rhetorical device is a common tool used in political discourse by individuals and groups across the ideological spectrum. However, the quote provided reflects a particular perspective on Obama's rhetorical style and the way he engages in political debate.

Critics of Obama's rhetorical style argue that by relying on straw man arguments, he oversimplifies and distorts the positions of his opponents, which can hinder meaningful and productive debate. Rather than engaging with the actual arguments and complexities of the issues at hand, the criticism suggests that Obama's approach is to create and attack a weaker version of his opponents' views.

On the other hand, supporters of Obama may argue that his use of rhetorical devices, including the occasional straw man argument, is a legitimate tool in political communication. They may argue that in the context of public speaking and persuasion, simplifying complex arguments can be effective in reaching a broader audience and making a persuasive case for a particular policy or position.

In conclusion, the quote by Fred Barnes highlights a specific criticism of President Obama's rhetorical style, accusing him of frequently knocking down straw man arguments. This critique reflects a broader debate about the role of rhetoric in political discourse and the ways in which public figures use language to shape public opinion and debate. Understanding the use of rhetorical devices, including the potential pitfalls of relying on straw man arguments, is an important aspect of engaging with political communication and debate.