Pranksters

'We won't get fooled again'

Kembrew McLeod is a professor of communication studies at the University of Iowa who successfully trademarked the term 'freedom of expression'. This is just one of many pranks he has perpetrated (more are revealed in this 'stealth autobiography') and thus he has an insider's perspective on the subject matter.

McLeod describes how are pranks can 'speak truth to power' and 'cultivate critical-thinking skills', however he covers a variety of other examples in this survey including spiritualism, confidence tricksters (one of the earliest successfully asked pedestrians to  lend him their watches for the day), and the baleful influence of fabrications such as "The Protocols of the Elders of Zion". A recurring theme is the media and what happens when pranks and hoaxes enter its echo-chamber. Pranks can be influenced and facilitated by new media, whilst they in turn can bring about changes in these media.

"Pranksters" is an entertaining read and I found myself frequently giggling at McLeod's (chiefly U.S.) examples, and his chatty prose. I particularly enjoyed reading about Benjamin Franklin's baiting of a hapless astrologer, a long-running argument between Houdini and Conan Doyle about spiritualism, and the countercultural stunts of Paul Krassner.     

The book, however, does have a dark side, as McLeod himself writes: "Despite some amusing moments sprinkled throughout "Pranksters", I can't shake the feeling of dread that runs through it." Pranks and hoaxes work because they tap into people's cherished beliefs, and if these beliefs include theories about, for example, Jews taking over the world, then fiction can be cited as fact worryingly quickly. I did sometimes wonder about the veracity of what I was reading: was I being pranked by McLeod (he has form). Luckily his assertions are meticulously sourced and cited in the endnotes, so I think he can be trusted...

What a fascinating book. Although it is titled "Pranksters" there are all kinds of trickery, hoaxes and confidence games. I don't know exactly what I was expecting but I definitely got much more.

Taking a walk through the history of "pranking" (and its many forms), we learn about so many differing people, attitudes and reactions throughout the years. Many examples are given: from Benjamin Franklin, to P.T. Barnum and a receptionist from Sup-pop Records.

A well-written and researched book. Recommended.

Paul ARH

Pranksters is a comprehensive look at all manner of tricks, pranks, hoaxes and cons. McKleod provides a clever exploration of the differences between these terms, and many others, to explain how they impact society. For example, a prank makes a statement and is designed to spark debate, whereas a hoax is more about duping people and capturing attention.

The author peppers his writing liberally with examples. I particularly enjoyed reading about the exploits of Benjamin Franklin: I wasn't aware he was such a mischievous soul! I look forward to reading more by McKleod in the future!