Review: On Bullshit
Published on 12 Jun 2006 at 12:51 pm |
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Filed under The Cargo Cults of Business.
On Bullshit
Harry G. Frankfurt
I read this delightful little book yesterday, and in my effort to keep Cargo Cult somewhere close to on topic, I couldn’t have done any better.
Mr. Frankfurt discusses his title concept with refreshing mental clarity, a sense of humor, and yes, perhaps just a bit of BS of his own.
The book opens with this remark:
"One of the most salient features of our culture is that there is so much bullshit."
From that auspicious begining he continues with discussion and description of bullshit, what it is, and what it is not. Along the way he, by way of contrast or comparison, touches on lies, hot air, humbug, and bluff. Among others, he quotes examples or supporting evidence from Pound, Wittgenstein, and St. Augustine.
All in all a great read, and notable how succinctly it expresses what we all knew. My favorite in that category is this:
"Bullshit is unavoidable whenever circumstances require someone to talk without knowing what he’s talking about."
This is by far my favorite book this year, and certainly the most enjoyment for the minute spent reading it.
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