| "A rhetorical question is a figure of speech in the form of a question that is
asked in order to make a point and without the expectation of a reply." (from Rhetorical question
[Wikipedia], taken from rhetorical
questions [rhetoric.byu.edu])
swmcd is criticizing the use of a
rhetorical question as being too informal, not criticizing it for coming across
as insincere rhetoric. "Rhetoric" and "rhetorical question" have the same word
root but very different connotations.
Since I referred to Silva Rhetoricae: The Forest of Rhetoric"
[rhetoric.byu.edu] which is a wonderful website on rhetoric in the formal sense,
I have to point out that there is another use for the word "rhetoric". Saying
that one is engaging in rhetoric or resorting to rhetoric is using it with the
negative connotation in the definition you quoted "but often regarded as lacking
in sincerity". But as it is used on that web site:
Rhetoric is the
study of effective speaking and writing. And the art of persuasion. And many
other things.
In its long and vigorous history rhetoric has enjoyed many
definitions, accommodated differing purposes, and varied widely in what it
included. And yet, for most of its history it has maintained its fundamental
character as a discipline for training students 1) to perceive how language is
at work orally and in writing, and 2) to become proficient in applying the
resources of language in their own speaking and writing"
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