Obvious Falsehoods without Deniability

Abstract

Abstract This chapter takes up an important puzzle: some of the most prominent false utterances in current political discourse are not couched in rhetoric to lend them deniability. Indeed, the undeniable falsehood of some of the utterances made by figures like Donald Trump and Boris Johnson is often remarked on. Nonetheless those making these utterances maintain devoted and apparently trusting followers. How can this be? This chapter explores the use of such bald-faced lies and bullshit as an authoritarian tactic. Once more, carefully distinguishing the perspectives of various audiences will be crucial to fully understanding the phenomenon. This will involve explorations of echo chambers, epistemic bubbles, and the ways that lies are used to exert and demonstrate power.