Admission Quote by Bill Dedman
“Lie detectors sometimes work because people believe they work, deterring the wrong people from applying for jobs in the first place, or prompting admissions of guilt during interrogations.”
About This Quote
Source Article: The Truth About Lie Detectors, The New York Times, 2015
People’s belief in polygraph efficacy influences behavior, deterring unsuitable candidates and prompting confessions.
In simple terms: Belief in lie detectors changes actions.
Key Takeaway
Leverage perception to improve screening.
Themes
psychology
ethics
employment
law enforcement
Mood
skeptical
analytical
Type
observational
critical
When to use this quote
- job interviews
- security screenings
- interrogations
- HR hiring practices
Key Concepts
behavioral influence
self‑fulfilling prophecy
deterrence
Questions to Reflect On
- How does belief alter outcomes?
- Can alternative methods replace this effect?
A Different Perspective
Effectiveness depends on belief, not actual accuracy.
