Behinds Quote by H. L. Mencken
“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.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Unconscious” in The American Mercury, 1929
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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