User:Sdestefano/On Bullshit

As a professional philosopher trained in analytical philosophy, Frankfurt's interest in the concept of bullshit stems from his concern about the erosion of truth in society. He distinguishes between "bullshitters" and liars, arguing that bullshitters pose a greater threat to the truth as they disregard it entirely, unlike liars who at least acknowledge its existence.

Frankfurt's work has elicited varied responses. While some praise its insight and clarity, others criticize its perceived oversimplification and narrow focus. Critics argue that Frankfurt overlooks the complexity of communication and truth dynamics and fails to address alternative motives for bullshit. Additionally, some contend that Frankfurt's analysis lacks consideration of the audience's ability to detect bullshit and that he neglects recent developments in psychology and philosophy. Despite criticisms, Frankfurt's work remains popular and influential, referenced by scholars like anthropologist David Graeber in his book Bullshit Jobs (2018).

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=== As a student taking a Philosophy course called "Calling Bullshit", the development of the scientific studies behind the theories of Bullshit reveals several aspects of life that continue to disregard the truth. This article points out David Graeber's book Bullshit Jobs (2018) which aligns with the definition of nonsense. Frankfurt's work focuses on the lack of reason or evidence behind bullshit in a modernized, technological world. The importance of being able to detect bullshit stems from the stress placed on our society and our tendency to believe something because someone said it is true. Overall, this article ties several concepts together in order to clearly depict the true form and intention of bullshit. ===

=== (I just read the Wikipedia article you provided and found it interesting. Frankfurt believes that bullshitting may not always be done on purpose but believes that ultimately it is done with a disregard and carelessness of the truth. The person who is lying cares about the truth, and wants to hide it, and the bullshitter doesn’t care if what they say is true or false. ===

=== Frankfurt decided to focus on bullshit because he was annoyed with the lack of respect for the truth. Frankfurt did some work by examining Max Black’s concepts. Both men are interested in understanding, defining and explaining their concepts and thoughts using examples. In Frankfurt’s book he really focuses on defending and discussing the differences between lying and bullshit. The difference between the two is intent and deception. The person who is lying and the person who is telling the truth are both worried about the truth. The liar wants people not to discover the truth and the person telling the truth wants to present and show the truth. Frankfurt wraps up his book by saying the rise and increase of bullshit we are exposed to is dangerous to all. One of the primary complaints has been that the book ignores the dynamic character of truth and the numerous dynamic elements involved in communication because it is very restricted and simplistic.This criticism also clarifies why the study is limited in analyzing motives and types of bullshit other than the one resulting from a disregard for the truth. One reviewer points out that the book ignores or fails to acknowledge the audience's capacity to recognize bullshit, and Frankfurt's justification for it paints a picture of bullshit as either invisible to the audience or readily justified.) ===