10th commandment – Thou shalt have indecent regard for others.

We come to the final commandment -the most obscure and nebulous of them all. Nebulous because it is built on an intuitive truth that is so commonly besmirched, that its validity is challenged by default. This truth – that we are all equal children in the eyes of a greater power, entitles us to equal shares in the light, glory, and goods of the world. Our possessions, most notably our mind and body, deserve respect and boundaries. Acts that have indecent regard for these, including self-centeredness, intrusiveness, and other boundary violating acts are almost certainly on an express train to being BS. Respecting each other as humans is at the core of our being. Generational BS since the beginning of mankind has convoluted this postulate of our existence. Be kind to each other. Anytime you are putting anyone down and not lifting them up, you are guilty of the 10th commandment.

9th commandment – Thou shalt indecently manipulate.

Guilt Tripping. Tugging at people’s heart strings. These are particularly vile when done with selfish interest. But even with the best intentions for the receiving party, manipulation is playing with fire. Honesty and being straight forward sets up the foundation for long term health despite often being more difficult in the short term. Having to “trick” someone into doing anything can be a sign of foundational problems.

8th commandment – Thou shalt assume false authority.

The lines cross even blurrier as we dive deeper into the commandments. One could argue commandment VIII is a derivative of commandment II (ignorance) or even commandment VII (misrepresentation). However it earns its own spot due to its omnipresence.

Citing incredulous sources, offering unsolicited advice, and the ever ubiquitous passing judgment finds its most comfortable home under this commandment. Be wary anytime you judge. In nearly all cases you are assuming authority and credibility you do not have. Remember this when someone utilizes false authority towards you to cut down their influence and power.

7th commandment – Thou shalt misrepresent. One of the most powerful, ubiquitous, and versatile commandments. Often this leverages the tiny truth of something and is transformed into a tool of ill intent. Because of its partial truthful nature, it can be extremely influential. Over-exaggeration is one of its simplest forms, but it can manifest in many more obscure and devious ways.

We now approach the second half of the Bible. Here the commandments are less defined and where you will find the most deceptive of BS both large and small. They become both more obscure and debatable with each subsequent commandment.

6th commandment – Thou shalt make improper assumptions. This includes jumping to conclusions and assuming causation with correlation. Be particularly mindful of this as many seemingly convincing forms of BS are largely based on unfounded assumptions that are barely highlighted in the main discourse.

The Bible of BS – The tools of deceit are varied and versatile. Some are more readily seen than others, and some more sinister. What is common to all is that their power dwains when they are clearly identified and labeled. Reference this compendium to empower and safeguard yourself against the manipulation you will face in your future.
1st commandment – Thou Shalt Lie. The simplest tool of them all. One of the lesser used ones due to its readily identifiable nature.