A pragmatic model of hypocrisy

Sandrine Sorlin, Tuija Virtanen

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedingChapterScientificpeer-review

Abstract

Based on the general definition of hypocrisy given in the introductory chapter, this chapter shows how pragmatics can deepen and add to the understanding of hypocrisy. It first guides the reader to think differently about this traditionally morally-laden and negatively-evaluated notion. It then sets out to establish the pragmatic space of verbal hypocrisy by confronting it with the notions of face, tact, flattery, politeness, irony, deception, and lying. To be identified as such, hypocrisy appears to require a reveal by or through a third party, but it can be left unexposed in contexts where people jointly play along with it, and occasionally even be disclosed by the hypocrite. As a first attempt to date, we devise a pragmatic model of verbal hypocrisy. The chapter concludes with a comment on the need for a renewed philosophy of language.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationThe Pragmatics of Hypocrisy
EditorsSandrine Sorlin, Tuija Virtanen
PublisherJohn Benjamins
Chapter2
Pages15-42
ISBN (Electronic)9789027247056
ISBN (Print)9789027247056, 9789027247056, 9789027247056, 9789027247056, 9789027247056, 9789027214614
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Mar 2024
MoE publication typeA3 Part of a book or another research book

Publication series

NamePragmatics and Beyond New Series
Volume343
ISSN (Print)0922-842X

Keywords

  • verbal hypocrisy, model, pretence, (im)politeness, civil hypocrisy, sincerity, (dis)simulation, face, impression management

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