But the lie had to be a good one, because if your lie is…
““But the lie had to be a good one, because if your lie is badly done it makes everyone feel wretched, liar and lied-to alike plunged into the deepest lackadaisy, and everyone just feels like going into the other room and drinking a glass of water, or whatever is available there, whereas if you can lie really well then get dynamite results, 35 percent report increased intellectual understanding, awareness, insight, 40 percent report more tolerance, acceptance of others, liking for self, 29 percent report they receive more personal and more confidential information from people and that others become more warm and supportive toward them--all in consequence of a finely orchestrated, carefully developed untruth.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A well-crafted lie can manipulate perceptions, yielding social benefits and deeper insight, but it also risks emotional harm and ethical decay.
In simple terms: Skillful deception can gain trust and information, yet may cause distress.
Key Takeaway
Use honesty to build genuine trust.
Themes
deception
communication
ethics
social dynamics
psychology
Mood
ambivalent
cautious
critical
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political negotiation
- marketing
- personal relationships
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
manipulation
trust
information gathering
emotional impact
Questions to Reflect On
- When does a lie become harmful?
- Can truth ever be as effective as a lie?
A Different Perspective
Lies can erode long‑term credibility and damage relationships.