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If it is necessary sometimes to lie to others, it is…

“If it is necessary sometimes to lie to others, it is always despicable to lie to oneself.” quote by W. Somerset Maugham
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“If it is necessary sometimes to lie to others, it is always despicable to lie to oneself.”

W. Somerset Maugham

About This Quote

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

Occasionally lying to others may be necessary, but lying to oneself is always morally reprehensible.

In simple terms: Self-deception is always wrong.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate honest self‑assessment.

Themes

integrity self‑deception ethics

Mood

introspective serious

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • leadership
  • therapy

Key Concepts

psychology moral philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What truths are you avoiding?
  • How does self‑deception affect your relationships?
A Different Perspective

Self‑lies can erode self‑trust and decision‑making.

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