Time Quote by David McCullough
““A lie,” he was once heard to declare on the floor of the Senate, “is an abomination unto the Lord and an ever-present help in time of need.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Senate floor, date unknown
A lie is condemned as sinful but is paradoxically used as a convenient tool in desperate times.
In simple terms: Lies are seen as both wrong and helpful.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the moral conflict of using deceit.
Themes
ethics
politics
convenience
Mood
conflicted
reflective
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- Political negotiations
- personal crises
- legal testimony
Key Concepts
Moral relativism
pragmatism
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it ever justified to lie for a greater good?
- How does this affect personal integrity?
A Different Perspective
Reliance on lies can erode trust and long‑term credibility.
