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One of the laudable by-products of the Freudian quackery…

“One of the laudable by-products of the Freudian quackery is the discovery that lying, in most cases, is involuntary and inevitable--that the liar can no more avoid it than he can avoid blinking his eyes when a light flashes or jumping when a bomb goes off behind him.” quote by H. L. Mencken
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“One of the laudable by-products of the Freudian quackery is the discovery that lying, in most cases, is involuntary and inevitable--that the liar can no more avoid it than he can avoid blinking his eyes when a light flashes or jumping when a bomb goes off behind him.”

H. L. Mencken

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Lying is an involuntary, automatic act, akin to blinking, revealing subconscious impulses.

In simple terms: Lying is instinctive, not always controllable.

Key Takeaway

Recognize lying as a natural reflex.

Themes

psychology truth human behavior unconscious

Mood

analytical skeptical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • interviews
  • conflict resolution
  • self‑analysis
  • legal testimony

Key Concepts

cognitive science ethics communication

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can awareness lessen lying?
  • What triggers honest versus dishonest responses?
A Different Perspective

Self‑control can reduce involuntary lies.

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