Defense Quote by Susan Sontag
“Lying is an elementary means of self-defense.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: On Photography, Susan Sontag, 1977
Lying can be used as a protective tactic to shield oneself from harm or criticism.
In simple terms: Lying can protect oneself.
Key Takeaway
Use honesty when possible, but recognize self‑defense motives.
Themes
self‑preservation
truth
ethics
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- public speaking
- media interviews
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
psychology
defensive behavior
Questions to Reflect On
- When does self‑defense become harmful?
- Can honesty be a stronger shield?
A Different Perspective
Lying erodes trust and may backfire.
![“Anthropology has always struggled with an intense, fascinated repulsion towards its subject… [The anthropologist] submits himself to the exotic to confirm his own inner alienation as an urban intellectual.” quote by Susan Sontag](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/fe1/susan-sontag-332_alienation_anthropology-has-always-struggled-with-a_15322.jpg)
![“Their [the U.S.’s] defense budget in absolute figures is almost 25 times bigger than Russia’s. This is what in defense is referred to as ‘their home — their fortress.’ And good for them, I say. Well done!” quote by Vladimir Putin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ec3/vladimir-putin-261_absolutes_their-the-u-s-s-defense-budget-in-absolu_10791.jpg)
