Lying is a crime the least liable to variation in its…
“Lying is a crime the least liable to variation in its definitions. A child will upon the slightest temptation tell an untruth as readily as the truth. That is, as soon as he can suspect that it will be to his advantage; and the dread that he afterward has of telling a lie is acquired principally by his being threatened, punished, and terrified by those who detect him in it, till at length, a number of painful impressions are annexed to the telling of an untruth, and he comes even to shudder at the thought of it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People lie when it benefits them; fear of punishment and social pressure teach them to dread lying.
In simple terms: People lie for gain, fear teaches honesty.
Key Takeaway
Recognize motives behind dishonesty.
Themes
ethics
psychology
social pressure
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
ethical
psychological
When to use this quote
- Childhood education
- parental discipline
- legal testimony
Key Concepts
Moral development
behavioral conditioning
trust dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives honesty in different societies?
- How does fear shape moral choices?
A Different Perspective
Cultural differences affect definitions of lying.