Brilliant. This is the language of "Yes Minister". The problem is that government is not a TV comedy. Peoples lives are adversely affected by this bullshit. "Net zero" and "inclusion" are quintessential examples
Both clever and wise, as always. Refreshing to read. That opening remark of Wittgenstein ought to be drummed into the heads of every teacher and administrator. Bravo!
A very timely piece in today's world. I feel it echoes the term 'Weasel words', which stems from a belief that weasels suck the yolks from bird’s eggs, leaving only the empty shell.
Aussie writer Don Watson's 2005 book, 'Watson's Dictionary of Weasel Words' is a handy reference, spotter and explainer to such bullshit as you've mentioned Steven.
As the then advertising stated:
"This book is a heavy weapon against politicians, managers and all those whose words kill brain cells and sink hearts, striking a much needed blow for truth and clarity."
Good to be reminded of all this, as someone once said, "The price of liberty (freedom) is eternal vigilance."
One might say that Trump has perfected this approach to language. His every word is perfect bullshit. Who would have thought that he would be the lineal inheritor of that which generations of public servants, politicians, and others (e.g., oil companies) have painstakingly crafted.
Brilliant. This is the language of "Yes Minister". The problem is that government is not a TV comedy. Peoples lives are adversely affected by this bullshit. "Net zero" and "inclusion" are quintessential examples
One of the best you've written, Steven. I often have a different perspective to you, but not on this. Well done.
Thanks, Mark. Much appreciated.
Both clever and wise, as always. Refreshing to read. That opening remark of Wittgenstein ought to be drummed into the heads of every teacher and administrator. Bravo!
Thanks, David. l
Most of it designed to either to confuse or spare the feelings of insecure midwits.
A very timely piece in today's world. I feel it echoes the term 'Weasel words', which stems from a belief that weasels suck the yolks from bird’s eggs, leaving only the empty shell.
Aussie writer Don Watson's 2005 book, 'Watson's Dictionary of Weasel Words' is a handy reference, spotter and explainer to such bullshit as you've mentioned Steven.
As the then advertising stated:
"This book is a heavy weapon against politicians, managers and all those whose words kill brain cells and sink hearts, striking a much needed blow for truth and clarity."
Good to be reminded of all this, as someone once said, "The price of liberty (freedom) is eternal vigilance."
Another useful book on the subject of meaning in public discourse. Thanks for the recommendation.
Agree completely! This class at U of Washington is excellent:
https://callingbullshit.org/
The textbook is also very good.
Imagine that, a text on bullshit. Must read.
One might say that Trump has perfected this approach to language. His every word is perfect bullshit. Who would have thought that he would be the lineal inheritor of that which generations of public servants, politicians, and others (e.g., oil companies) have painstakingly crafted.