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  • Essay / The importance of dishonesty in politics - 706

    This is a desirable situation, but not always possible. Politicians must campaign, plan strategy, and collect donations, among other responsibilities. This means that we don't always have time to understand the latest developments on topics as varied as oil markets, civil rights protests, wars and scientific developments. Even the president must have daily meetings with advisers on issues ranging from security to education. Not always being able to have the best information, candidates are sometimes forced to engage in a practice that Harry Frankfurt, professor of philosophy at Princeton, describes as “bullshit”. Frankfurt defines “bullshit” as a statement made without regard to the facts surrounding it. This is distinct from lying in that a liar has respect for the truth he is distorting. It's rational for a politician to use "bullshit" when talking about topics he doesn't cover.