Social Pressure and the Rise of Bullshit: How Our Need to Belong Clouds Truth

Humans are social creatures, wired to connect and belong. Yet this fundamental need can sometimes lead us astray, especially when it comes to truthfulness. Harry Frankfurt’s On Bullshit reveals that bullshit often arises from social pressures rather than simple dishonesty. When individuals feel compelled to speak or offer opinions, even without sufficient knowledge, bullshit becomes a convenient escape.

Obligation to Speak and Bullshit Production Imagine being at a meeting where silence feels awkward or risky. The pressure to fill the void can push people to speak confidently about topics they barely understand. Psychological studies confirm this: when obligated to talk, people produce more bullshit, prioritizing social acceptance over accuracy.

Accountability and Its Effects Accountability acts as a powerful brake on bullshit. When people expect their statements to be scrutinized by peers or experts, they tend to be more cautious and truthful. Conversely, anonymity and low evaluation environments foster more careless or deceptive communication.

Behavioral Contagion and Norm Reinforcement Bullshit is contagious. Observing others bullshitting without consequence encourages imitation, reinforcing social norms that tolerate or reward bullshit. This feedback loop explains why misinformation can dominate certain social media spaces or political discourse.

Examples in Everyday Life From corporate jargon-filled presentations to political speeches laden with empty promises, bullshit thrives where social expectations outweigh demands for truth. Understanding these dynamics helps us create environments that value honesty, encourage questioning, and reduce the social incentives for bullshit.

Next, we’ll meet the artists behind bullshit—the tactics and profiles of those who craft it—and learn how to spot their strategies.

Sources: jarango.com, thevimblog.com, mentormilitary.com 1 , 3 , 2