Lying: Moral Choice in Public and Private Life [B1239]

1989 PB printing of the 1978 original. Is it ever all right to lie? A philosopher looks at lying and deception in public and private life-in government, medicine, law, academia, journalism, in the family and between friends. 'Lying' is a penetrating and thoughtful examination of one of the most pervasive yet little discussed aspects of our public and private lives. Beginning with the moral questions raised about lying since antiquity, Sissela Bok takes up the justifications offered for all kinds of lies-white lies, lies to the sick and dying, lies of parents to children, lies to enemies, lies to protect clients and peers. The consequences of such lies are then explored through a number of concrete situations in which people are involved, either as liars or as the victims of a lie.

From recent-ish Amazon/GoodReads reviews: "One of the best books ever written. Even though it was originally published in 1978, it is still highly relevant today. In fact, it might be more relevant now than ever as we watch the erosion of basic morality by liars like Donald Trump and other politicians who seem to build their entire career on half-truths. Highly recommend."; "Sissela Bok does a great job in addressing the complexities of lies and truth in this book. Though the debate is a fiery hot one, Bok takes it in stride and does everything necessary to address both sides neatly. Her arguments are persuasive and her evidence is extensive. It seems that she may agree that lying is a negative vice, but she wishes to leave the choice to us and makes note of the few occasions that lying would be necessary. Bok addresses the words of St. Augustine, and well known psychologists and philosophers in her quest to answer the question; Is lying immoral? A fantastic read!"; "Just as relevant today, as it was in the 1980's. Was not a quick read."; "Mrs. Bok poses a plethora of moral and conscience thought provoking questions and scenarios related to truth telling or lack thereof. 15 intense chapters cover various aspects of lies and decisions based on lying."; "This book is phenomenal! Lots about the subject that one has not thought about before."