Bullshitters

Bullshitters is a colloquial noun used to describe individuals who habitually produce or repeat false, misleading, or exaggerated statements. The term derives from the verb "bullshit," which entered American English in the mid‑20th century and describes speech or writing that is intentionally deceptive or nonsensical. The plural form “bullshitters” is commonly employed in informal contexts such as journalism, social media commentary, and political analysis to criticize people perceived as lacking honesty.

The usage of the word varies by audience. In mainstream news, it may appear in opinion pieces or editorial cartoons to underscore perceived hypocrisy or incompetence. Within internet culture, it is frequently encountered in memes, forums, and comment sections where users label politicians, corporate spokespeople, or public figures. Scholars of rhetoric note that the term functions as a rhetorical device to signal distrust and moral judgment, often accompanied by the phrase “bulls‑hitter” or the shorthand “BS.”

Academic discussions of the concept tend to focus on the broader phenomenon of misinformation, propaganda, and “post‑truth” politics. Comparably, related terms include “spin doctor,” “political whiz," and “phoney.” While “bullshitters” is not a legal or formal classification, it remains influential in shaping public perception of credibility. The persistence of the term reflects ongoing concerns about transparency and accountability in both public and private spheres.