Lying

People lie so that others will form beliefs that are not true. The more consequential the beliefs—that is, the more a person’s well-being demands a correct understanding of the world or of other people’s opinions—the more consequential the lie.

To lie is to erect a boundary between the truth we are living and the perception others have of us.

In many circumstances in life, false encouragement can be very costly to another person.

egregious

Vulnerability comes in pretending to be someone you are not.

Research suggests that all forms of lying—including white lies meant to spare the feelings of others—are associated with less satisfying relationships.6

The moment we consider our dishonesty from the perspective of those we lie to, we recognize that we would feel betrayed if the roles were reversed.

The intent to communicate honestly is the measure of truthfulness.

pacifist.