Meaning: The quote "Rhetoric is cheap, evidence comes more dearly" by John Fund encapsulates the idea that persuasive language and argumentation can be easily employed, but supporting those arguments with credible evidence is harder and more valuable. This quote highlights the importance of substantiating claims with evidence rather than relying solely on persuasive language.

Rhetoric, in the context of this quote, refers to the art of using language effectively and persuasively. It often involves appealing to emotions, beliefs, and values to sway an audience's opinion or behavior. Rhetoric can be found in various forms of communication, including speeches, advertisements, political discourse, and even everyday conversations. It is a powerful tool for influencing others, but its effectiveness is often limited when not supported by substantial evidence.

John Fund, the author of this quote, is a political journalist and commentator known for his work in analyzing and reporting on political issues. As a seasoned observer of political communication and discourse, Fund likely understands the significance of evidence in shaping public opinion and policy decisions.

The juxtaposition of "rhetoric" and "evidence" in the quote suggests a contrast between the ease of employing persuasive language and the difficulty of obtaining and presenting credible evidence. Rhetoric, often characterized by its emotive and persuasive nature, can be readily used to make assertions and arguments. It can be deployed to appeal to an audience's emotions and biases, making it a common tool in public discourse and debate.

On the other hand, evidence is the factual information, data, or support that substantiates a claim or argument. Unlike rhetoric, evidence requires thorough research, critical analysis, and verification. It serves as the foundation for sound reasoning and informed decision-making. In the realm of public discourse and policy-making, evidence-based arguments carry more weight and credibility than those relying solely on rhetoric.

The quote also implies that while rhetoric may be abundant and readily available, evidence is scarce and therefore more valuable. This scarcity of evidence can be attributed to the rigorous standards and processes involved in obtaining credible evidence. Whether in scientific research, legal proceedings, or public policy analysis, the demand for reliable evidence is high, and its acquisition often involves significant resources, time, and expertise.

Fund's quote underscores the importance of critically evaluating the claims and arguments presented in public discourse. It serves as a reminder that individuals should be cautious of being swayed by persuasive rhetoric alone and instead seek out the evidence that supports the claims being made. In an era marked by the proliferation of information and competing narratives, the ability to discern between mere rhetoric and substantiated evidence is crucial for informed decision-making and civic engagement.

In conclusion, John Fund's quote "Rhetoric is cheap, evidence comes more dearly" succinctly captures the distinction between persuasive language and substantiated arguments. It highlights the value of evidence in supporting claims and the potential pitfalls of relying solely on rhetoric. In a world where rhetoric can be easily wielded to influence opinions, this quote serves as a timely reminder of the importance of seeking credible evidence to inform our beliefs and actions.