Busted is an entertaining, insightful tour through the excuses people make when they’re cornered—from bungling criminals to smooth-talking politicians to everyday “it wasn’t me” moments.
With humor and sharp analysis, the book categorizes real examples and unpacks the psychology behind deflection, blame-shifting, and image protection. It’s a witty mirror held up to human nature—and a reminder of how far we’ll go to avoid the truth.
Busted digs into the excuses people deploy when the truth is inconvenient—from bungling criminals to smooth-talking politicians to everyday “it wasn’t me.” With wit and clear-eyed analysis, Charles Patton shows how blame-shifting, deflection, and image protection work, why they’re so tempting, and how to spot them before you’re fooled. You’ll recognize patterns in headlines and in your own life, and you may even retire a few favorite rationalizations along the way.
We like to believe we are reasonable, honest beings. Then we’re late, or wrong, or caught. Enter the excuse—our mind’s clever little lawyer, always on retainer. From the smallest fib to the biggest scandal, we reach for stories that protect us from blame, embarrassment, or loss. Busted unpacks that instinct and exposes the ingenuity, desperation, and humor that lie behind every excuse ever made.
Both. It’s funny on purpose, but grounded in clear psychology and real examples.
Readers who enjoy true crime snippets, political theater, and everyday human nature—without heavy academic prose.
Yes—each chapter highlights red flags and gives simple counters you can use at work and at home.
DISCOVER THE ART OF A BAD EXCUSE.
Laugh, reflect, and explore the ridiculous ways we try to dodge blame.