How To Detect BS
I’m not really sure if ‘BS’ is considered bad language on the web, but I like to keep things a little clean over here. BS stands for bullshit, and it’s a good idea to work on detecting when you’re around it.
Everyone lies: it’s just a question of how, when and why. From the relationship saving “yes, you do look thin in those pants” to the improbable “your table will be ready in 5 minutes”, manipulating the truth is part of the human condition. Accept it now.
This article from Lifehack favorite, Scott Berkun, delves into the seedy, yet common, world of BS and looks at ways to see it coming and deal with it.
Of course, what may be an equally useful article is How To Bullshit. You can get pretty far if you have a way with words and disguising BS. However, until that article is written, enjoy this gem.
How to detect bullshit - [ScottBerkun]
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Comments
Chief Family Officer says on August 1st, 2007 at 10:29 pm
I never realized how trusting I was until I met my husband! My first instinct is still to trust rather than be skeptical, but I’m a much better BS detector than I used to be. If you’re like me, the very best way to learn how not to be is to spend a lot of time with someone who’s a pro at picking up on BS.
Mahmoud Abdelaziz says on August 2nd, 2007 at 6:38 pm
one of the best articles I have ever read. I use many of these techniques in detecting and attacking bullshit, but the article explained the issue clearly and stated the solutions to it. In my work place I meet people who are bullshitting all the time, but my position does not allow me to comment in many cases.
RichardH says on August 7th, 2007 at 2:08 am
When anyone makes statements within an article that make assumptions that anyone who believes in “GOD” is somehow deluded, ignorant, or otherwise a simpleton is arrogant and lacking wisdom. Fear or respect of GOD is the beginning of wisdom. Why should I listen to a person or read anything they have written if he starts off by making himself out to be a fool. Anything that follows would be of little value. By-the-way, the Bible nevers mentions that the “forbidden fruit” was an apple. A common error of the those who haven’t studied the Word of GOD.
Craig Childs says on August 7th, 2007 at 2:25 am
Just to clarify, no such assumption is made in this article. Scott doesn’t even mention anything about believers of god.
He only uses the story of Adam and Eve for examples of lies.