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Part of
The Pragmatics of Hypocrisy
Edited by Sandrine Sorlin and Tuija Virtanen
[Pragmatics & Beyond New Series 343] 2024
► pp. 2–14

Chapter 1
Introduction to hypocrisy

| University Paul-Valéry – Montpellier 3,
| Åbo Akademi University,
This introductory chapter approaches hypocrisy (i) as misalignment between two inconsistent elements and (ii) as a sham of some kind, through a transdisciplinary discussion of the notion in public and academic discourse. Presenting the aim of the volume and the rationale behind it, we argue for a broad perspective on hypocrisy in this first contribution of pragmatics towards understanding what appears to be a ubiquitous and multifaceted phenomenon. Encompassing emic and etic approaches, the chapters included in the volume jointly shed light on ideas and practices related to the complex notion. A general overview is provided to account for the connections and relevance of the different parts.
Keywords: (in)sincerity, deception, misalignment, ethics, moral, sham, malign hypocrisy, benign hypocrisy, verbal hypocrisy, doublespeak
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Hypocrisy as misalignment (of various kinds)
  • 3.Hypocrisy as a sham (to varying degrees)
  • 4.Aim, rationale and working definition
  • 5.Structure and contents
  • Notes
  • References
Published online: 1 March 2024
DOI logo
https://doi.org/10.1075/pbns.343.01sor
References (22)
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