Pre-eighteenth century men were rationalists who believed in induction-deduction.

This is true. 

This was the classicism age when being rational was the most widespread mode of philosophy. It was when the scientific revolution started happening and a huge emphasis was put on education and logic. This is also known as the enlightenment period because it was perceived that science and education enlightens the way.

They can ask questions and they deserve a answer and they can make stories about whatever is going on in the white house