This post for members was written by Leonard Steinhorn, Professor of Communication and History at American University and a former political speechwriter. “There are three kinds of lies,” according to a quote often attributed to the Nineteenth Century British Prime Minister, Benjamin Disraeli, “lies, damned lies, and statistics.” .memberful-global-teaser-content p:last-child{ -webkit-mask-image: linear-gradient(180deg, #000 0%, transparent); mask-image: linear-gradient(180deg, #000 0%, transparent); } Join now to continue reading.Members get exclusive analysis, bonus features and no advertising. Learn more.If you’re already a member, sign in to your account.