Authors and thinkers
Author

Harry Frankfurt

8 key ideas, each explained in our own words.

On Bullshit

  1. IDEA 1

    Bullshit is everywhere but misunderstood

    Frankfurt observes that bullshit is one of the most common features of modern culture, yet we rarely think carefully about what it is. His short essay tries to define it clearly.

  2. IDEA 2

    Liars care about truth

    Frankfurt argues that a liar knows the truth and deliberately says something false to hide it. In this sense, the liar still pays attention to truth, even while trying to deceive.

  3. IDEA 3

    Bullshitters don't care about truth

    The bullshitter, by contrast, does not care whether what they say is true or false. Their aim is to create an impression or achieve a goal, and truth is simply irrelevant to them.

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