Introduction

During your professional career, people will tell you things that aren't true. Sometimes they're lies, intended to manipulate or deceive; sometimes they're things that the speaker believes (or perhaps wants to believe), but on closer inspection don't pass muster; sometimes people will tell you things that are true, but irrelevant or of limited use, to persuade you of their position.

Who will be telling you these things? You've probably already thought of marketing and salespeople, desperate to get you or your company to take their product and win the commission. Speakers at conferences could do it too, trying to convince you that the technique, style, or strategy they're promoting is applicable to your situation in addition to theirs. The website for that new language you want to try out may be making exaggerated claims. Your manager or teammates may be trying a little too hard to sell you on their way of thinking.

There will also be plenty of occasions...