Political Self-Deception

Self-deception is a type of political deception that distorts reality against the available evidence and according to one's wishes. This book by Anna Elisabetta Galeotti explores how self-deception can explain political occurrences where public deception intertwines with political failure, using close analysis of three well-known case studies. It appeals to readers in political philosophy, political theory, and international relations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 271 pages
Publication date: 12 November 2020
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Self-deception, a profound distortion of reality, stands as a distinctive element within the intricate landscape of political deception. While it has garnered relatively limited attention, its significance warrants thorough exploration for its explanatory and normative dimensions. In her insightful book, Anna Elisabetta Galeotti delves into the intricate workings of self-deception, shedding light on how it can unravel the complexities of political occurrences where public deception intertwines with political failure. From the consequences of bad decisions rooted in false beliefs to the self-serving nature of these beliefs, Galeotti's discussion unravels the deceptive nature of leaders and their impact on the public. Through a meticulous analysis of three well-known case studies—John F. Kennedy and the Cuba Crisis, Lyndon B. Johnson and the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, and George W. Bush and the weapons of mass destruction—Galeotti offers a captivating exploration of the mechanisms of self-deception. This book appeals to a wide range of readers, including political philosophy enthusiasts, political theory scholars, and international relations experts, as it provides valuable insights into the dynamics of power, governance, and the complexities of human decision-making.

Weight: 402g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108438308