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The Art of the Lie: How the Manipulation of Language Affects Our Minds
This book shows how language can be used strategically to manipulate beliefs.From Machiavelli to P. T. Barnum to Donald Trump, many have perfected the art of strategically using language to gain the upper hand, set a tone, change the subject, or influence people's beliefs and behaviors. Language--both words themselves and rhetorical tactics such as metaphor, irony, slang, and humor--can effectively manipulate the minds of the listener. In this book, Marcel Danesi, a renowned linguistic anthropologist and semiotician, looks at language that is used not to present arguments logically or rationally, but to "move" audiences in order to gain their confidence and build consensus. He demonstrates that through language techniques communicators can not only sway opinions but also shape listeners' very perception of reality. He assesses how the communicative environment in which the art of the lie unfolds--such as on social media or in emotionally-charged gatherings--impacts the results.Danesi also investigates why lies are often accepted as valid. Artful lying fits in with an Internet society that is largely disinterested in what is true and what is false and in which attention is often given to speech that is entertaining or persuasive. Have we become immune to lies because of a social media discourse shaped by untruths? In an electronic age where facts are deemed irrelevant and conspiracies are accorded as much credibility as truths, this book discusses the implications of lying and language for the future of belief, ethics, and American democracy itself.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 8, 2019
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160 people want to read
About the author
Marcel Danesi
273 books34 followersMarcel Danesi (b. Marcello Danesi, 1946) is a current Professor of Semiotics and Linguistic Anthropology at the University of Toronto. He is known for his work in language, communications, and semiotics; being Director of the Program in Semiotics and Communication Theory.
He has also held positions at Rutgers University (1972), The University of Rome "La Sapienza" (1988), the Catholic University of Milan (1990), and the University of Lugano.
He is the Editor-in-Chief of Semiotica: Journal of the International Association for Semiotic Studies and is a past-president of the Semiotic Society of America.
He has also held positions at Rutgers University (1972), The University of Rome "La Sapienza" (1988), the Catholic University of Milan (1990), and the University of Lugano.
He is the Editor-in-Chief of Semiotica: Journal of the International Association for Semiotic Studies and is a past-president of the Semiotic Society of America.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
November 11, 2019
Based on the title of this book (and my not catching the reference to Donald Trump’s book), I thought it would be a studious examination of how people use their words to manipulate others. After all, this is what most humans do at one time or another, and some more than most. I was not, however, prepared for the personal beliefs, half-truths, and name-calling that author Marcel Danesi spreads throughout the pages of this book, the majority of it aimed at President Trump. At best, his writing is a great example of what he is railing about. It becomes sad and shameful that some of the quotes inserted in the book WERE NEVER SAID.
As an example of misquotes, in chapter two Mr. Danesi quotes President Trump from a speech at a VFW Convention in July, 2018: “What you’re seeing and what you’re reading is not what is happening.” The author then goes on to compare the President with Big Brother from “1984.” What’s the reality? The quote is a paraphrase from what was actually said: “You know, every once in a while you hear something, and usually you’ll understand.” He then went on to talk about liberal statements on illegal immigration, and how difficult it was to understand what was voiced by those defending open borders. This is in no way, shape, or form what Mr. Danesi printed in his book. A later passage stated that Sarah Sanders said “…Trump was sent to Earth by God…” which was not close to what she said. Misquotes like these causes one to wonder how many other half-truths and lies are included in this book only to prop up the author’s viewpoints.
Throughout the book the author offers details on the questionable to despicable actions of people like Mussolini, Stalin, Lenin, and Goebbels, barely pausing before linking Trump to them and intimating as well as clearly stating that the U.S. President is no different. The tragedy here is that Mr. Danesi also provides informative passages describing the subject, yet each time he does, it is related back to President Trump or conservatives in general. It would have been an interesting read if the information would have been applied to both of the main political parties in the U.S. A discussion on how both parties affect the American population would have been fascinating. However, that would have demanded a nonpartisan view and, in Mr. Danesi’s world, only conservatives lie or twist the truth.
A good example: Mr. Danesi repeatedly commented on President Trump’s use of “Crooked Hillary,” telling us that Hillary Clinton “…used the traditional verbal etiquette of American political discourse.” The author then omits to remind us of how Ms. Clinton attacked both Donald Trump and his supporters when she said “You could put half of Trump’s supporters into what I call the Basket of Deplorables.” Verbal etiquette, indeed.
The full title of this book is “The Art of the Lie: How the Manipulation of Language Affects Our Minds.” Nowhere on the book cover nor the sales blurb does it indicate this is a book specifically aimed at the current President of the United States. If the goal is to write a book on politics and condemn a politician, then state that. A book on the art of the lie would be more powerful if it stayed on topic and didn’t bunny trail off on personal rants. My apologies to those reading this review as I am not a fan of reviewers who turn reviews into political vehicles. Unfortunately, the author went there first. As I stated earlier, this book is a good example of what Mr. Danesi chose as his topic. Trump-haters will love it. For me, I felt he veered away from the stated topic and moved into a personal arena. What could have been a five-star book turned into a dissatisfying read. Two stars.
My thanks to NetGalley and Prometheus Books for an advance electronic copy of this book.
As an example of misquotes, in chapter two Mr. Danesi quotes President Trump from a speech at a VFW Convention in July, 2018: “What you’re seeing and what you’re reading is not what is happening.” The author then goes on to compare the President with Big Brother from “1984.” What’s the reality? The quote is a paraphrase from what was actually said: “You know, every once in a while you hear something, and usually you’ll understand.” He then went on to talk about liberal statements on illegal immigration, and how difficult it was to understand what was voiced by those defending open borders. This is in no way, shape, or form what Mr. Danesi printed in his book. A later passage stated that Sarah Sanders said “…Trump was sent to Earth by God…” which was not close to what she said. Misquotes like these causes one to wonder how many other half-truths and lies are included in this book only to prop up the author’s viewpoints.
Throughout the book the author offers details on the questionable to despicable actions of people like Mussolini, Stalin, Lenin, and Goebbels, barely pausing before linking Trump to them and intimating as well as clearly stating that the U.S. President is no different. The tragedy here is that Mr. Danesi also provides informative passages describing the subject, yet each time he does, it is related back to President Trump or conservatives in general. It would have been an interesting read if the information would have been applied to both of the main political parties in the U.S. A discussion on how both parties affect the American population would have been fascinating. However, that would have demanded a nonpartisan view and, in Mr. Danesi’s world, only conservatives lie or twist the truth.
A good example: Mr. Danesi repeatedly commented on President Trump’s use of “Crooked Hillary,” telling us that Hillary Clinton “…used the traditional verbal etiquette of American political discourse.” The author then omits to remind us of how Ms. Clinton attacked both Donald Trump and his supporters when she said “You could put half of Trump’s supporters into what I call the Basket of Deplorables.” Verbal etiquette, indeed.
The full title of this book is “The Art of the Lie: How the Manipulation of Language Affects Our Minds.” Nowhere on the book cover nor the sales blurb does it indicate this is a book specifically aimed at the current President of the United States. If the goal is to write a book on politics and condemn a politician, then state that. A book on the art of the lie would be more powerful if it stayed on topic and didn’t bunny trail off on personal rants. My apologies to those reading this review as I am not a fan of reviewers who turn reviews into political vehicles. Unfortunately, the author went there first. As I stated earlier, this book is a good example of what Mr. Danesi chose as his topic. Trump-haters will love it. For me, I felt he veered away from the stated topic and moved into a personal arena. What could have been a five-star book turned into a dissatisfying read. Two stars.
My thanks to NetGalley and Prometheus Books for an advance electronic copy of this book.
November 23, 2019
Knowing that Marcel Danesi writes books about language and books about puzzles, among other things, I was looking forward to an informative and possibly entertaining books about the use of language to deceive, perhaps like Maria Konnikova's excellent The Confidence Game. I was disappointed.
Danesi combined his knowledge of Machiavelli, philosophy, linguistics, and history to write what could have been a very interesting book about how Donald Trump uses language to persuade, bully, and deceive. What results is more of a personal attack on Trump's language. I probably agree with everything Danesi thinks about Trump, but I don't need another anti-Trump screed. I compose my own, out loud, almost daily.
I think that Danesi gives Trump too much credit for being Machiavellian. Machiavelli was a clever, if unprincipled person. But what bothers me the most about the book is how Danesi seems to believe that Trump's supporters are intellectually inferior and are being led by the nose. He's actually quite condescending about these supposed Trump followers, calling them "uninformed." He goes on to say that while what Trump says might seem absurd to some, "to those with little education and mental vulnerabilities, [Trump]...can set them down the path of questioning their entire reality." I'm sure that some Trump followers are "uneducated" but many have excellent educations, for instance Harvard educated Trump adviser Stephen Miller.
The Art of the Lie will only appeal to those who already completely agree with it and that don't mind the outlandish stereotyping of the unwashed Trump mobs. I can't imagine the reader who will come to it with an open mind waiting to be convinced that they are wrong about Trump.
(Thanks to NetGalley and Prometheus Books for a digital review copy.)
Danesi combined his knowledge of Machiavelli, philosophy, linguistics, and history to write what could have been a very interesting book about how Donald Trump uses language to persuade, bully, and deceive. What results is more of a personal attack on Trump's language. I probably agree with everything Danesi thinks about Trump, but I don't need another anti-Trump screed. I compose my own, out loud, almost daily.
I think that Danesi gives Trump too much credit for being Machiavellian. Machiavelli was a clever, if unprincipled person. But what bothers me the most about the book is how Danesi seems to believe that Trump's supporters are intellectually inferior and are being led by the nose. He's actually quite condescending about these supposed Trump followers, calling them "uninformed." He goes on to say that while what Trump says might seem absurd to some, "to those with little education and mental vulnerabilities, [Trump]...can set them down the path of questioning their entire reality." I'm sure that some Trump followers are "uneducated" but many have excellent educations, for instance Harvard educated Trump adviser Stephen Miller.
The Art of the Lie will only appeal to those who already completely agree with it and that don't mind the outlandish stereotyping of the unwashed Trump mobs. I can't imagine the reader who will come to it with an open mind waiting to be convinced that they are wrong about Trump.
(Thanks to NetGalley and Prometheus Books for a digital review copy.)
October 28, 2019
This book is right on time. There is always content on social media that serves the author's agenda and with this the rise of "fake news," and "movements" and "hashtags."
Marcel Danesi is a renowned linguistic Anthropologist and Semiotician. To me that means that he's got a good understanding of language and in this book he actually breaks down how we use words to move people and more often than not we do not include any facts or logic while at it.
One thing is certain, Trump cannot read this.
I also learned a new term in Chapter three called Confabulation.
Thanks Netgalley for the eARC. This is a must read for anyone who is interested in understanding the link between language and reality and why falsehoods are believed.
Marcel Danesi is a renowned linguistic Anthropologist and Semiotician. To me that means that he's got a good understanding of language and in this book he actually breaks down how we use words to move people and more often than not we do not include any facts or logic while at it.
One thing is certain, Trump cannot read this.
I also learned a new term in Chapter three called Confabulation.
Thanks Netgalley for the eARC. This is a must read for anyone who is interested in understanding the link between language and reality and why falsehoods are believed.
July 7, 2020
So repetitive.. It could have been a good article not a book...
November 18, 2019
"Words have power" is a phrase that bombards us constantly. It's one that can be applied to numerous contexts, can cross disciplines or political spectrums, has been embedded in the literature we read, the media we consume, and the society within which we're reared to the point where it begins to feel like just another one of those things we all say. A platitude that loses a little of its zing, its import. Its significance withering because of such prolific usage.
As a result, it can be easy to overlook or diminish the role language often plays in shaping our beliefs, the way guile and deception and vagary can be utilized by some as linguistic tools to manipulate individuals as well as the masses; polluting their minds with destructive lies they grow to accept as fact. So how does it happen? Why? Where and when have we seen it throughout history? In modern times? What types of verbal strategy and rhetoric do masterful liars employ that enable them to persuade so many people to support their nefarious agendas?
These are some of the questions, among others, that the author endeavors to answer in this book.
Danesi takes readers through the "art" of lying step-by-step, concept by concept, to show these clever machinations at work. He explains how skilled deceivers aim, overall, to twist words into weapons that can or do divide people against each other in order to promote self-interests, exaggerate truth, or achieve political dominion. (The latter of which has already been exemplified by certain dictators throughout world history).
The concepts he explores vary from ritualistic repetition to false equivalency, from confabulation to doublespeak, and to the construction of alternate narratives (i.e. deflection, denial, redirecting blame) and attackonyms and beyond. No stone of artifice is left unturned. No "cognitive dissonance" discourse is off-limits. He also frames his arguments in literary as well as modern day contexts. That means Orwellian 1984 parallels pop up (in thought-provoking ways!) almost as readily as connections, comparisons, and criticisms of Donald Trump abound.
Trump is a focus of this book, I won't lie. So if you can get over the fact that this lumps him into the Machiavellian liar category without preamble and in a clinical manner, exploiting the devious strategy in his falsehoods and setting him up as a current example to rival other notable examples, then you will find much to intellectualize over between past, present, and future. If not, you might be disappointed in the content. Or at least in the pointed emphasis that swings in his direction.
Personally, I believe there's a lot to be gained from reading either way. It's important to try to understand the hypnotic power of mendacity and how it can affect our minds so we can learn from our past mistakes. An engrossing, if not controversial (for some), read to say the least.
Thanks to NetGalley and Prometheus Books for the ARC! 3.5 stars
As a result, it can be easy to overlook or diminish the role language often plays in shaping our beliefs, the way guile and deception and vagary can be utilized by some as linguistic tools to manipulate individuals as well as the masses; polluting their minds with destructive lies they grow to accept as fact. So how does it happen? Why? Where and when have we seen it throughout history? In modern times? What types of verbal strategy and rhetoric do masterful liars employ that enable them to persuade so many people to support their nefarious agendas?
These are some of the questions, among others, that the author endeavors to answer in this book.
Danesi takes readers through the "art" of lying step-by-step, concept by concept, to show these clever machinations at work. He explains how skilled deceivers aim, overall, to twist words into weapons that can or do divide people against each other in order to promote self-interests, exaggerate truth, or achieve political dominion. (The latter of which has already been exemplified by certain dictators throughout world history).
The concepts he explores vary from ritualistic repetition to false equivalency, from confabulation to doublespeak, and to the construction of alternate narratives (i.e. deflection, denial, redirecting blame) and attackonyms and beyond. No stone of artifice is left unturned. No "cognitive dissonance" discourse is off-limits. He also frames his arguments in literary as well as modern day contexts. That means Orwellian 1984 parallels pop up (in thought-provoking ways!) almost as readily as connections, comparisons, and criticisms of Donald Trump abound.
Trump is a focus of this book, I won't lie. So if you can get over the fact that this lumps him into the Machiavellian liar category without preamble and in a clinical manner, exploiting the devious strategy in his falsehoods and setting him up as a current example to rival other notable examples, then you will find much to intellectualize over between past, present, and future. If not, you might be disappointed in the content. Or at least in the pointed emphasis that swings in his direction.
Personally, I believe there's a lot to be gained from reading either way. It's important to try to understand the hypnotic power of mendacity and how it can affect our minds so we can learn from our past mistakes. An engrossing, if not controversial (for some), read to say the least.
Thanks to NetGalley and Prometheus Books for the ARC! 3.5 stars
July 4, 2020
Lying is one thing. Choosing to continue to believe in the lie pushes the hypocrisy to a whole new dimension. Written by an internationally renowned linguist and semiotician, this book asserts the following: "that lying is the most destructive of all types of deportment." This is a cancer that if not eradicated, should at least be neutralized. We need to be able to recognize them. By calling the lie as a form of art, author Danesi shows us the many different faces of the lie. The Trojan horse story is a powerful example of the art of deception, of how people could be deceived. Lies and lying are nothing new. From Lucifer as the "Prince of lies" to political leaders of today who tell half-truths in order to manipulate public opinion, we learn of this disease infecting our society in more ways than we know. Some would say there is a difference between a black vs a white lie. Others would claim that a lie is a lie, regardless of the colour. Regardless of justification, there is a sense of manipulation whenever lies are used, and this is where the problem begins. Danesi gives us a laundry list of these manipulators. From swindlers to con-artists; scammers to tricksters; cunning characters in literature to political figures in real life, all of these are ways that Lucifer, the prince of lies has influence in. The author calls this problem perfectly defined as according to George Goebbels: "Make the lie big, make it simple, keep saying it, and eventually they will believe it." Sadly, this has become pervasive throughout society. By showing us the different faces of such lies, author Marcel Danesi reminds us to be on our guard against two things: Being manipulated, and becoming a manipulator.
The world is full of lies. With the Internet, the pervasiveness of lies will only get worse. There are the "alternative facts" as told by Trump's consultant, Kellyanne Conway to deflect any sense of wrongdoing. When language is restructured as doublespeak or words that confuse and conflate the original meaning, there is more falsehood than truth. Confabulation is another lying technique stitched together through vague recollections, partial fabrication, and ego-boosting words. Trump popularized the word "Fake News" which adds to the library of manipulative words. It serves two purposes. First, it allows his followers to spread the conspiracy theory excuse. Second, it attacks the media he does not like. It is targeted at journalists in particular. Gaslighting is a technique used to "control the perception of reality." We see a lot of examples in literature, movies, and dog whistles. Danesi says that when leaders use words like "family" and "values" in election speeches, these become dog whistles to rally votes to one's platform. Showing us how words could be used as weaponry, the author highlights the need to guard ourselves against deception, denial, and deflection. We are all tempted to do that especially when maneuvering from defensive to offensive. He calls Trump a "master" when it comes to such "military verbiage."
My Thoughts
==============
I see Trump's name mentioned throughout the book as the modern Machiavellian. In some way, the author acknowledges Trump as the Master Yoda of the art of the lie. When cornered, he deceives, denies, deflects, or destroys his opponents. He links the state of mental health with the environment of lies that we have grown accustomed to. This is a big link. By asserting that "words matter," Danesi hopes to shine light on truth and to expose lies as falsehood. Lying is to be taken seriously, for truth matters absolutely. This has huge implications because the way to deal with mental health is not just prescription of medication but a healthy environment of truth. Danesi even supplies the positive empirical data which shows how much improvement in brain health when the lies go down. Being manipulated humiliates us which in turn could make us bitter and vengeful. When we are better equipped to deal with lies, scams, and falsehood, we will form a better hedge of protection to maintain good health.
This is a book that deserves a wider read. If you are a Trump supporter, you might tune out completely from what the author has to say. You might even claim that the author has a personal vendetta against all things Trump. Before jumping to that conclusion, note that the author is writing as an expert in the field of linguistic, human behaviour, and semiotics. He uses science and connects research with verifiable data. Even if one does not believe everything Danesi writes in the book, at least consider the possibility that not everything Trump says is true, both letter-wise and meaning-wise. Words can be twisted and changed to achieve one's end. As Lord Acton's saying goes, "Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely," it is not just Trump but anyone in power who has the greatest tendency to abuse words for one's ends.
I think the biggest value in this book is to be able to recognize the signs of the lie. Whether it is big talk that boosts up one's need to be inspired, or small talk that meets one's need for companionship, sometimes we can deceive ourselves into believing what we want to believe. Things are often not what they seem to be. The overall mood in this book is dark. Like a mirror to reflect the real world we live in, we can ignore the message in this book at our peril.
Marcel Danesi is professor of linguistic anthropology and semiotics at the University of Toronto, director of the university's Program in Semiotics and Communications, and an internationally-renowned semiotician.
Rating: 4.5 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Rowman and Littlefield Publishing Group and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
The world is full of lies. With the Internet, the pervasiveness of lies will only get worse. There are the "alternative facts" as told by Trump's consultant, Kellyanne Conway to deflect any sense of wrongdoing. When language is restructured as doublespeak or words that confuse and conflate the original meaning, there is more falsehood than truth. Confabulation is another lying technique stitched together through vague recollections, partial fabrication, and ego-boosting words. Trump popularized the word "Fake News" which adds to the library of manipulative words. It serves two purposes. First, it allows his followers to spread the conspiracy theory excuse. Second, it attacks the media he does not like. It is targeted at journalists in particular. Gaslighting is a technique used to "control the perception of reality." We see a lot of examples in literature, movies, and dog whistles. Danesi says that when leaders use words like "family" and "values" in election speeches, these become dog whistles to rally votes to one's platform. Showing us how words could be used as weaponry, the author highlights the need to guard ourselves against deception, denial, and deflection. We are all tempted to do that especially when maneuvering from defensive to offensive. He calls Trump a "master" when it comes to such "military verbiage."
My Thoughts
==============
I see Trump's name mentioned throughout the book as the modern Machiavellian. In some way, the author acknowledges Trump as the Master Yoda of the art of the lie. When cornered, he deceives, denies, deflects, or destroys his opponents. He links the state of mental health with the environment of lies that we have grown accustomed to. This is a big link. By asserting that "words matter," Danesi hopes to shine light on truth and to expose lies as falsehood. Lying is to be taken seriously, for truth matters absolutely. This has huge implications because the way to deal with mental health is not just prescription of medication but a healthy environment of truth. Danesi even supplies the positive empirical data which shows how much improvement in brain health when the lies go down. Being manipulated humiliates us which in turn could make us bitter and vengeful. When we are better equipped to deal with lies, scams, and falsehood, we will form a better hedge of protection to maintain good health.
This is a book that deserves a wider read. If you are a Trump supporter, you might tune out completely from what the author has to say. You might even claim that the author has a personal vendetta against all things Trump. Before jumping to that conclusion, note that the author is writing as an expert in the field of linguistic, human behaviour, and semiotics. He uses science and connects research with verifiable data. Even if one does not believe everything Danesi writes in the book, at least consider the possibility that not everything Trump says is true, both letter-wise and meaning-wise. Words can be twisted and changed to achieve one's end. As Lord Acton's saying goes, "Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely," it is not just Trump but anyone in power who has the greatest tendency to abuse words for one's ends.
I think the biggest value in this book is to be able to recognize the signs of the lie. Whether it is big talk that boosts up one's need to be inspired, or small talk that meets one's need for companionship, sometimes we can deceive ourselves into believing what we want to believe. Things are often not what they seem to be. The overall mood in this book is dark. Like a mirror to reflect the real world we live in, we can ignore the message in this book at our peril.
Marcel Danesi is professor of linguistic anthropology and semiotics at the University of Toronto, director of the university's Program in Semiotics and Communications, and an internationally-renowned semiotician.
Rating: 4.5 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Rowman and Littlefield Publishing Group and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
January 10, 2020
This is a fascinating exploration of dishonesty, mostly in political discourse, in all of its various guises: confabulation, gaslighting, fake news, doublespeak, verbal weaponry, truthful hyperbole, and more. It's all the more fascinating because the author is a linguistic anthropologist.
The historical and contemporary examples and parallels are frightening, but we must take comfort from the fact that eventually, truth and honesty must prevail. But after reading this, you will be more careful about what you read, absorb, and pass on.
The historical and contemporary examples and parallels are frightening, but we must take comfort from the fact that eventually, truth and honesty must prevail. But after reading this, you will be more careful about what you read, absorb, and pass on.
November 15, 2019
In a world of "alternative facts", "fake news", clickbaits, and constructed personae on social media platforms the pursuit of truth is not an easy one. In The Art of the Lie author Marcel Danesi gives insight into how and why lies affect us, how they have been used for centuries to manipulate mankind, and how the Machiavellian strategies of lying and deceiving helped Donald Trump win the 2016 election and built his voter base. It is a very interesting take on a topic that has been a widely debated topic for nearly 3 years.
Highly relevant in today's sensationalist society and highly recommendable! The author does a great job of explaining the different concepts and the writing style is very enjoyable, too.
Highly relevant in today's sensationalist society and highly recommendable! The author does a great job of explaining the different concepts and the writing style is very enjoyable, too.
November 9, 2019
#TheArtOfTheLie #NetGalley
A great look how we as a society can be easily manipulated by media. The confidence and emotion that goes into language techniques on sway the public was downright scary. The Art of the Lie is a must read for the media frenzy that we live in today. It gives the reader a overview to why we see lies as valid when we know that they are not just based on common sense.
A great look how we as a society can be easily manipulated by media. The confidence and emotion that goes into language techniques on sway the public was downright scary. The Art of the Lie is a must read for the media frenzy that we live in today. It gives the reader a overview to why we see lies as valid when we know that they are not just based on common sense.
April 14, 2020
This book analyses the style of rhetoric of Donald Trump and compares it with other similar figures from the past, especially Hitler, Stalin and Mussolini. He makes a convincing case for great similarities between them and also explains the remarkable (from this side of the Atlantic) fact that Trump evidently lies very frequently and very evidently and yet his popularity remains high, even amongst groups such as evangelical Christians who you would expect to place truth as a major virtue.
The book is well-argued and well-written, making for reasonably easy reading despite the academic thoroughness and frequent footnotes. I did feel that it could have done with a fiercer edit; it was getting a little repetitive towards the end. There were also a few small factual issues. Despite quoting Frans de Waal, he also states a few times that lying is particularly human, but actually it is a behaviour by most social animals. Squirrels pretend to hide their cache of nuts in a different place from where it is and injured rats pretend not to be hurt. Most behavioural scientists would consider that some lying is necessary to function well in society and if everyone was brutally honest the whole time it would indeed be a less pleasant society to live in. In that sense, the division isn't so much absolutely between truth and lies, as Danesi makes, but between normal behaviour and brutal disregard for facts and decency.
Danesi also seems to have a thing against the science fiction films The Matrix, which is a bit odd. The claim that that film is responsible for massacres doesn't really stand up to serious enquiry (possibly the bizarre US gun laws might have a slightly greater effect?) and stating twice that the characters see the world through a 'computer screen' does rather give the impression he has not watched the film.
The other very odd couple of pages is where he spends some time arguing that Trump's sort of demography is genetically male. His evidence seems to be that he cannot think of a woman who has been like that. Well, all I can say is 'Mrs Thatcher'. Take, for instance, her speeches insisting that trade unionists were "the enemy of the people" - which Danesi identifies as a typically Trumpian slogan.
The book was published before the current Corona crisis. It is clear that in the current circumstances, the anti-science and anti-expert rhetoric of Trump is a particular disaster for his country and it is beginning to look like the long-term 'truth will out' factor is finally turning on Trump. It is remarkable that where I live, in the Netherlands, the strategy of the government to publicly and explicitly rely mainly on the advice of leading scientists has gone down hugely well with the voters and this has greatly increased the status of the Prime Minister. There is a general sense of amazement and even pity here that the US is stuck with such a complete lack of leadership in this crisis.
In summary, a book worth reading, if only because it articulates the things which most outsiders will have been thinking, but also provides a framework to understand and analyse the strange phenomenon of Trump's lies.
Disclaimers:
A free copy of this book was obtained from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Frans de Waal is a prominent user of research tools provided by the company I work for.
The book is well-argued and well-written, making for reasonably easy reading despite the academic thoroughness and frequent footnotes. I did feel that it could have done with a fiercer edit; it was getting a little repetitive towards the end. There were also a few small factual issues. Despite quoting Frans de Waal, he also states a few times that lying is particularly human, but actually it is a behaviour by most social animals. Squirrels pretend to hide their cache of nuts in a different place from where it is and injured rats pretend not to be hurt. Most behavioural scientists would consider that some lying is necessary to function well in society and if everyone was brutally honest the whole time it would indeed be a less pleasant society to live in. In that sense, the division isn't so much absolutely between truth and lies, as Danesi makes, but between normal behaviour and brutal disregard for facts and decency.
Danesi also seems to have a thing against the science fiction films The Matrix, which is a bit odd. The claim that that film is responsible for massacres doesn't really stand up to serious enquiry (possibly the bizarre US gun laws might have a slightly greater effect?) and stating twice that the characters see the world through a 'computer screen' does rather give the impression he has not watched the film.
The other very odd couple of pages is where he spends some time arguing that Trump's sort of demography is genetically male. His evidence seems to be that he cannot think of a woman who has been like that. Well, all I can say is 'Mrs Thatcher'. Take, for instance, her speeches insisting that trade unionists were "the enemy of the people" - which Danesi identifies as a typically Trumpian slogan.
The book was published before the current Corona crisis. It is clear that in the current circumstances, the anti-science and anti-expert rhetoric of Trump is a particular disaster for his country and it is beginning to look like the long-term 'truth will out' factor is finally turning on Trump. It is remarkable that where I live, in the Netherlands, the strategy of the government to publicly and explicitly rely mainly on the advice of leading scientists has gone down hugely well with the voters and this has greatly increased the status of the Prime Minister. There is a general sense of amazement and even pity here that the US is stuck with such a complete lack of leadership in this crisis.
In summary, a book worth reading, if only because it articulates the things which most outsiders will have been thinking, but also provides a framework to understand and analyse the strange phenomenon of Trump's lies.
Disclaimers:
A free copy of this book was obtained from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Frans de Waal is a prominent user of research tools provided by the company I work for.
September 13, 2020
Based on the book's description, this novel was not at all what I was expecting. Given the author's educational pedigree I had expected a well researched and studious description of the linguistic features people deploy to manipulate each other using language. I anticipated the author to describe the specific linguistic characteristics that arise in mendacious speech. However, that is not what this book has.
The author prefaces the book with the information that he will be using Donald Trump as his prime specimen to illustrate the various "arts" that liars use. So, we know from the start that Donald Trump will feature heavily in the book. However, what started as an intellectual study became more of a political piece and it was hard to continue. I want to be clear, I am not a supporter of the president either, but I don't think the examples that Mr. Danesi used were unquestionably fitting nor well-sourced. In one example, Mr. Denasi didn't find the exact quote from an unnamed political pundit - which would have been the most appropriate way to analyze the language - and instead chose to include a paraphrased version of the quote from memory. In another problematic example of a point, that was being presented in a laundry list of the comparisons to Mussolini was the assertion that the use of the word "real" in his Twitter handle is somehow a clever call to his followers that he the "people's warrior" who will defend America. This ignores the reality that there are many verified Twitter account users who use the same convention to differentiate them from fake accounts, for example, Kevin Hart and Liam Payne, for who we wouldn't make a similar claim. I was hoping to read more of an academic treatment of the various implements of the liar's playbook examples and references to academic journals and literature. There were references in the book but they were mostly to political books or news articles. In the end, there were too many issues for me, and I couldn't complete the entire book.
Let me summarize my understanding of the book: from the author's perspective, Donald Trump is a liar-fascist whose followers are willing to believe and follow him because despite him obviously not being a true believer in the causes he supports because he furthers their racist causes and/or because they are easily influenced.
The author prefaces the book with the information that he will be using Donald Trump as his prime specimen to illustrate the various "arts" that liars use. So, we know from the start that Donald Trump will feature heavily in the book. However, what started as an intellectual study became more of a political piece and it was hard to continue. I want to be clear, I am not a supporter of the president either, but I don't think the examples that Mr. Danesi used were unquestionably fitting nor well-sourced. In one example, Mr. Denasi didn't find the exact quote from an unnamed political pundit - which would have been the most appropriate way to analyze the language - and instead chose to include a paraphrased version of the quote from memory. In another problematic example of a point, that was being presented in a laundry list of the comparisons to Mussolini was the assertion that the use of the word "real" in his Twitter handle is somehow a clever call to his followers that he the "people's warrior" who will defend America. This ignores the reality that there are many verified Twitter account users who use the same convention to differentiate them from fake accounts, for example, Kevin Hart and Liam Payne, for who we wouldn't make a similar claim. I was hoping to read more of an academic treatment of the various implements of the liar's playbook examples and references to academic journals and literature. There were references in the book but they were mostly to political books or news articles. In the end, there were too many issues for me, and I couldn't complete the entire book.
Let me summarize my understanding of the book: from the author's perspective, Donald Trump is a liar-fascist whose followers are willing to believe and follow him because despite him obviously not being a true believer in the causes he supports because he furthers their racist causes and/or because they are easily influenced.
January 15, 2020
I found the premise of this book fascinating, how language is used to manipulate people, especially in politics and show business. The correlations between Machiavelli, Donald Trump and P.T. Barnum made perfect sense in context, though I think Danesi gives Trump too much credit for intelligence he clearly doesn't possess. His deceptions are more like the little boy in the playground repeating "No I didn't!" over and over again, though this still employs the same tactics of repetition and denial explained in the more clever machinations of experts in using language as manipulation like Joseph Goebbels.
The correlations of Trump to Mussolini are chilling, especially now that the UK has elected a very similar con man as Prime Minister. I found the explanation of using phrases like 'alternative facts' fits into an established model of confusing perceptions through language. The methods used to direct the average person's attention away from real facts is frightening in that we can see the real world getting manipulated through these methods into the stuff of a dystopian novel.
He does harp on about Trump a great deal, but it is a current example and very appropriate. Had the book been written a little later, Boris Johnson would no doubt have got a starring role as well.
A very interesting study and one worth reading to help see the signs of when the public is being lied to by corrupt politicians.
The correlations of Trump to Mussolini are chilling, especially now that the UK has elected a very similar con man as Prime Minister. I found the explanation of using phrases like 'alternative facts' fits into an established model of confusing perceptions through language. The methods used to direct the average person's attention away from real facts is frightening in that we can see the real world getting manipulated through these methods into the stuff of a dystopian novel.
He does harp on about Trump a great deal, but it is a current example and very appropriate. Had the book been written a little later, Boris Johnson would no doubt have got a starring role as well.
A very interesting study and one worth reading to help see the signs of when the public is being lied to by corrupt politicians.
August 18, 2021
In a nutshell, it is a book showing how words has the power to influence and or manipulate people's thinking and beliefs. Giving the Machiavelli's example, referencing it to Mussolini, Hitler and most recently Trump, the author was providing examples of how, not only spoken words, but also simple body language can trigger the thoughts of people. Though I can't help to pause and agree, as mentioned in the introduction that humans are prone to lying, the difference would be the intention and scale of it. In the examples given, they are of nefarious purposes, thus making me wonder, of those currently in power, how much is spoken is fact, perceived truth or manufactured information for various intentions.
Overthinking after reading this book would not help, instead a big warning and reminder to look carefully at the signs of when one is lying, not fall prey to an illusion as well as know truth is always a perspective of the speaker. Our choice is whether or not to believe.
Overthinking after reading this book would not help, instead a big warning and reminder to look carefully at the signs of when one is lying, not fall prey to an illusion as well as know truth is always a perspective of the speaker. Our choice is whether or not to believe.
February 11, 2020
I didn’t find any new insights here; a lot of stuff about how Trump gaslights us and rouses supporters with a welter of words and lies, where he wins because people give up on the concept of the truth. Best random factoid: A 1932 experiment on the power of language to shape perception found that “when they showed subjects a picture and then asked them later to reproduce it, the drawings were influenced by the verbal label assigned to the picture. The picture of two circles joined by a straight line, for instance, was generally reproduced as something resembling ‘eyeglasses’ by those subjects who were shown the eyeglasses label. On the other hand, those who were shown the dumbbells label tended to reproduce it as something resembling ‘dumbbells.’”
November 14, 2020
I was provided an advanced copy of this book by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book had a great premise, and the author's education laid out plans for an excellent argument. However, while I should have caught the reference to Trump's book by the title, this book is basically a treatise about Trump's lying and manipulation by comparing him to other notorious liars, specifically Machiavelli - and as one other reviewer also stated, Trump is nowhere near the intellect of Machiavelli.
This book was repetitive, and I'm honestly exhausted with reading about Trump's lying and manipulating; this book had the potential to be a good examination on the subject as a whole, and instead was determined to use one specific subject and run it into the already tired ground.
This book had a great premise, and the author's education laid out plans for an excellent argument. However, while I should have caught the reference to Trump's book by the title, this book is basically a treatise about Trump's lying and manipulation by comparing him to other notorious liars, specifically Machiavelli - and as one other reviewer also stated, Trump is nowhere near the intellect of Machiavelli.
This book was repetitive, and I'm honestly exhausted with reading about Trump's lying and manipulating; this book had the potential to be a good examination on the subject as a whole, and instead was determined to use one specific subject and run it into the already tired ground.
May 1, 2020
I had to DNF this book after the first 100 pages. I really tried to get into it but it is poorly structured and incredibly repetitive. At most points it felt as though the writer has set off with one idea to explain but instead got sidetracked by another that they wanted to fit in. Furthermore the use of the present tense seemed pointless and jarring throughout the whole text. Yes the ideas that were proposed made sense, but need urgently to be refined and produced in a more intelligible manor. It made for a very uncomfortable read and I never think I will pick it up again to finish.
October 17, 2020
It is an Orwellian wet dream of epic proportions, but The Art of the Lie is also one of those books which chillingly forewarns against the state's appropriation of language and effectively communication to disenfranchise human individuality-the fount of all civic powers. Well worth a read though the intermingling of simple language and academic jargon makes it a foray into headache territory at times.
December 1, 2020
Maybe it’s me but I can never seem to finish a non-fiction book. This book was kind of interesting at the start then every chapter seems to be the same. And there’s so much Trump bashing! Not that I’m for or against Trump but really you can’t find some other examples in your book? And after awhile there’s no research or anything just keep finding lies from Trump and use as an example got a bit bored on it.
November 6, 2019
Oh the art of the lie. What a magnificent book it was. I appreciated the candor in a book with the word “lie” in the title.
The author’s voice really shone through in the writing and I found that very effective to read and a nice way to keep me, the reader, engaged. I’ll have to read more of Marcel Danesi’s works
The author’s voice really shone through in the writing and I found that very effective to read and a nice way to keep me, the reader, engaged. I’ll have to read more of Marcel Danesi’s works
November 14, 2019
The book incorporates several interesting facts about the psychology of our as well as examples. I found the concept quite interesting although a bit difficult to read (maybe because I am not a native speaker). Knowledge is the power and it is always important to be equipped with the information like this.
November 23, 2019
The premise is great, the subject is crucial, but it can be a bit disappointing. I gag every time I have to read the dickheads' name and the credit he is given in this book is bothersome. Machiavelli was clever, trump is not.
Seeing, acknowledging and noticing lying is crucial in this day and age but I didn't really learn much here.
Nice idea, questionable execution.
Seeing, acknowledging and noticing lying is crucial in this day and age but I didn't really learn much here.
Nice idea, questionable execution.
March 11, 2025
5/10- I had to read for school but honestly was surprised how much I did enjoy reading it. The writing style and use of examples was super helpful to explain topics throughout the book. I do wish the author focused on at least one female liar... but other than that I have no complaints. #womencanlietoo
February 3, 2020
The Art of The Lie explores the linguistic perspective of manipulating words in order to achieve what you want and, bottom line, lie. The author uses examples from history, analyzing them in order to give the readers different perspectives.
February 18, 2020
I was interested in learning more about the manipulation of language from a linguistic expert. Unfortunately, there was just too much Trump for me. Ugh, I can’t even hear or talk about the bot anymore, much less ruin my love for reading with subject matter that pertains to him.
October 1, 2020
An interesting analysis of the lying methods the president of the USA uses. - I was expecting a more general book on the manipulation through language but my reading of Trump's speeches chimes with what the author writes.
August 21, 2020
literally thought this was about viewing people and identifying lies and truths and not about trump.... im done... couldnt finish this at all
Read
November 21, 2020I wouldn't call it unreadable but its not worth reading.
July 5, 2023
Fascinating and disturbing read about how people are so easily manipulated with language.
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