Topics Ethics

Question Hi; I was wondering if there is ever justification in Religion and or Politics for "the Noble Lie". I ask this because it seems to me that both mainly rely on this is order to maintain relevance. Oddly enough what fascinates me most is the idea that it is necessary to invent some "Bogey Man" in order to maintain Social & Economic cohesion. Anyway I'd be more than interested in your views and opinions. Cheers Pasquale. BTW,, I've just finished reading your Book, "What should I do?" Great Read. Thanks.

Accepted:
September 19, 2013

Comments

Lies are a problem politically since they imply a paternalistic relationship between rulers and the ruled. Even from a consequentialist point of view this is problematic, since it would become more and more tempting for leaders to deceive themselves about when it was appropriate to level with the led.

On the other hand, there is no reason why politicians should not present what they take to be true in ways that fit in with what they think will move the public. As with ordinary conversation, we tend to present information in ways we think will resonate with our audience, and often selection is involved here of both words and ideas. We should not lie, but shaping the truth to make it more malleable to an audience is acceptable morally.

Of course, the more people do it the less effective it becomes.