Harry G. Frankfurt Books
Harry Gordon Frankfurt (1929–2023) was an American philosopher best known for his work on moral philosophy, free will, and the philosophy of mind. He taught at Princeton University and Yale University, and his essays, including 'On Bullshit' and 'The Importance of What We Care About,' have had a lasting influence on contemporary thought.
Known for: On Bullshit
Books by Harry G. Frankfurt
On Bullshit
In this philosophical essay, Harry G. Frankfurt explores the concept of 'bullshit' as distinct from lying. He argues that while a liar knows and cares about the truth but seeks to conceal it, the bullshitter is indifferent to the truth and focuses instead on impression and persuasion. Frankfurt examines how this indifference to truth has become pervasive in modern discourse, offering a sharp and humorous yet serious reflection on authenticity, sincerity, and the moral implications of communication.
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Distinguishing 'bullshit' from lying
When I began to investigate the notion of bullshit, the first obstacle was definitional precision. It was tempting to equate bullshit with lying, since both involve distortion. Yet as I examined this, it became clear that the two are entirely distinct forms of misrepresentation. The liar—the one who...
From On Bullshit
Exploration of indifference to truth
The defining mark of bullshit is indifference. In philosophical terms, it is not error but disregard—a collapse of epistemic concern. When someone bullshits, they operate in a vacuum of truth-value, using words as tools of display rather than instruments of disclosure. I found this indifference pro...
From On Bullshit
About Harry G. Frankfurt
Harry Gordon Frankfurt (1929–2023) was an American philosopher best known for his work on moral philosophy, free will, and the philosophy of mind. He taught at Princeton University and Yale University, and his essays, including 'On Bullshit' and 'The Importance of What We Care About,' have had a las...
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Harry Gordon Frankfurt (1929–2023) was an American philosopher best known for his work on moral philosophy, free will, and the philosophy of mind. He taught at Princeton University and Yale University, and his essays, including 'On Bullshit' and 'The Importance of What We Care About,' have had a las...
Harry Gordon Frankfurt (1929–2023) was an American philosopher best known for his work on moral philosophy, free will, and the philosophy of mind. He taught at Princeton University and Yale University, and his essays, including 'On Bullshit' and 'The Importance of What We Care About,' have had a lasting influence on contemporary thought.
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Harry Gordon Frankfurt (1929–2023) was an American philosopher best known for his work on moral philosophy, free will, and the philosophy of mind. He taught at Princeton University and Yale University, and his essays, including 'On Bullshit' and 'The Importance of What We Care About,' have had a lasting influence on contemporary thought.
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