The Ways We Lie (50 Essays)

This except for the book "50 Essays" is by Stephanie Ericsson. She explores the idea of lying by categorizing it by different lies we produce. The first couple of paragraphs, Ericsson tells her typical day where she tells lies in order to go through the day. She says she doesn't feel the least bit guilty but then starts questioning herself. She asks herself some questions that I can relate to when it comes to lying. For example she asks what is the consequences we, as the liars, and others face due to our lies. Ericsson continues to define the word lie and explains that this dictionary definition implies there are numerous ways to lie.

After this she explores seven different types of possible lies we can tell. She starts with "the white lie", a lie told because the liar believes the truth will do more harm than good. She states that this is basically the liar choosing what is best for the other person and that this is an selfish and indecent.

Next she talks about facades. Ericsson explains that this is also considered a lie because this is what we use to attract people. She justifies this by tell us how, when with a client, Ericsson is properly dressed in a suit because that is more formal and acceptable than her pajama outfit with she is at home writing. Basically, yes we do put on facades but sometimes it's what has to be done.

The next lie Ericsson talks about is "Ignoring the Plain Facts", where she talks about a Massachusetts Catholic Church and Father James Porter in the '60's. Father James Porter was sexually abusing children and instead of reprimanding him, the Catholic Church relocated him multiple times before relieving him of his duties. She back this story up by saying even though this isn't really considered a lie, according to the definition of "false action done with the intent to deceive", the Catholic Church was also responsible for Father James Porters actions.

The following topic is deflecting. This is the action of reverting the attention to something else to avoid talking about something. There are somethings we would rather not talk about and to avoid that we talk more of something else or shift the attention to something else. Then there's omission which is where majority of what you say is truthful except you skip over some details. I believe everyone does this thinking they are dodging from any lying.

She also explores stereotypin and cliches. These are basic and simple ideas of people categorizing them into a specified group. This is form of lying prevents people from seeing the true colors of people because of simply stereotyping. She talks about groupthink as well were decisions are made to keep loyalty to the group. This takes in account all different types of lying as you are part of a group and primarily following the groups thoughts as one big decision.

Finally she talks about "out-and-out lies", simple lies that can be imminently proved false. She states these are easy to confront and easily understood.

This article fascinated me as Stephanie Ericsson explained in detail the different types of lies told. And I admit I have and probably will continue to tell majorities of these lies. And so will others, and that's how it is. Lying is part of our natural for better or for worse. And its due to our social standards I think. We were brought up on lies and so it'll continue to be part of us.