Posted on 12/20/2007 6:28:13 AM PST by vietvet67
In his seminal work on Ethics the German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote that "it is worse for a liar to tell the truth than for a lover of truth to tell a lie."
At first glance, coming from a brilliant mind such as Bonhoeffer's, this conclusion would seem a worrisome contradiction. Generally, the act of speaking the truth, from a person whose natural inclination is to lie, should be viewed as a positive and a hopeful trend in that person's character development; a turn in the right direction; whereas a lie coming from the mouth of a person whom we have come to rely on by virtue of their fairly unblemished record of honesty, is rightfully viewed as a form of treason.
Bonhoeffer goes on to unfold his thesis by stating that a "falling away is worse than a falling down". In other words, when a person who regularly speaks the truth utters a lie, he is merely suffering from a temporary lapse of judgment. In all likelihood he will be tempted and have recurrent lapses like these throughout his life; but the general direction in which he conducts his life will be one disposed towards honesty; he has merely "fallen down".
On the other hand, when someone who is a chronic liar speaks the truth, it is not necessarily a sign of improvement, but a calculated attempt -- by one who has mastered the art deceit -- to manipulate the truth for his or her own purposes,. This act, which on its face may look like a valiant attempt at reformation, denotes instead a singularly pernicious kind of wickedness.
(Excerpt) Read more at americanthinker.com ...
What does Herself think of this analysis?
What has she said that is true? I haven’t noticed anything.
During my working years, I knew several people who had "difficulties with the truth." It was strange to me that a number of these types, when presented with the truth, were content to carry on as though nothing of import had happened. This led me to conclude that there is a particular psychology attached to this malady and that that psychology permits them to believe that they are free of guilt.
When others (those who are usually wedded to the truth) lie, it is usually fairly obvious and a little gentle probing will reveal the lie. After some experience, I found it to be useful to avoid calling such a person a liar. Better to allow that person to excuse himself or herself by saying something like, "I could be mistaken about that." Better not to leave unnecessary "bruises" on a person who is otherwise of great value. The bruises that they inflict upon themselves are quite enough.
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