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Language games and corporate psychopaths
Book chapter   Peer reviewed

Language games and corporate psychopaths

Brendon Murphy and Benedict Sheehy
Research Handbook on Corporate Psychopaths, pp.102-117
Business 2026, Edward Elgar Publishing
2026

Abstract

Law in context Language studies Sociology Psychopathic discourse Manipulative language Framing Bullshit Buzzword bingo Foucauldian analysis
This chapter explores psychopathic discourse in political and managerial communication, focusing on how language is used to manipulate, distract, and assert control through framing, labelling, and undermining veracity. It examines the strategic deployment of rhetorical tactics that promote egocentrism, create division, and disregard truth, especially in environments amplified by social media. The concept of "bullshit", as distinguished from lies and obscurity, is central to this analysis-highlighting how performative and vague language can erode trust and distort reality. "Buzzword bingo", a satirical game targeting managerial jargon, serves as an entry point into this discussion, revealing how repetitive, empty phrases signal a broader discursive pathology. Such tactics not only threaten democratic processes by distorting public discourse but also undermine organisational effectiveness by masking critical information and reducing employee confidence. The chapter concludes with insights from Foucauldian discourse analysis and explores how identifying and resisting such manipulative language can restore clarity and accountability.

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