ABSTRACT
This chapter will begin with an initial consideration of the wide-reaching effects of deception on society. We will also highlight some key questions that have been debated in the modern history of the psychology of deception. But this book aims to do more than offer a recounting of past work. To become an expert in a field of research requires an ability to understand the strengths of an argument, its weaknesses, its limitations, and an ability to marry the argument with contrasting and supporting empirical evidence. For that reason, this chapter will not only contextualise much of what is to come by considering the academic and societal importance of deception and its detection. It will also give guidance on how to develop your evaluative reasoning, which will help you develop sound and reasoned arguments that can be cogently communicated to others. This chapter also provides a brief on how to use this book, depending on your goals and background.
