Discussion of Honesty and Lying in Our Lifes

Introduction

We all tell lies on a daily basis in our lives; however, do we feel guilty when we do so? I’m certain you do. Honesty is a virtue, something meaningful that continually attracts success, accomplishment, and well-being. By being honest, you're being ethical, and this can challenge you in various situations. Although we all know that lying is wrong, some people perceive it as desirable in certain contexts. We often lie for the happiness of others, thinking we are being noble instead of causing someone harm.

Discussion of Honesty and Lying in Our Lives

A value is a belief, a mission, something meaningful for us, and they are key to achieving success. Honesty plays a vital role in our values. We tend to feel good doing things right and often receive positive feedback. People who value honesty cannot bring themselves to tell a lie, and those who value goodness are unwilling to do something wrong. Honesty involves being fair and truthful. You do the right thing for your own and others’ benefit. You value people by telling them the truth about everything. Demonstrating honesty might involve admitting you broke a jar at someone’s house. People appreciate this, and if you're honest, you might be rewarded for it later. In other words, every day and everywhere, you will encounter situations that challenge your honesty.

At home, in church, with friends, with your family, in businesses—everywhere—you will face the choice between lying and being honest. Honesty is ethical; it is a virtue. You are challenged in honesty everywhere, and you can be reprimanded if you are not. Religion is very concerned with honesty, and there are punishments for which you must repent for lying, and you may be ostracized. Dishonesty can be considered rudeness or betrayal. Honesty is considered in two ways: as “will,” in which you choose to lie for your own benefit knowing that if you tell the lie, you may be rewarded; and “grace,” where you decide to lie to avoid negative consequences for someone else, instead of harming them. Still, if you are honest, some people might think lies are acceptable in certain situations.

We all recognize lies are wrong, but we continue to lie, and sometimes it seems desirable. It’s meant for a noble cause, like differing people’s opinions knowing that it will hurt them. We sacrifice our honesty for the happiness of others. It’s sometimes preferable to tell a lie this way than to remain silent, giving an opinion that will be judged or criticized. However, some people prefer to know the truth about everything rather than feel that people are hiding the truth, which can hurt much more. You might tell a friend that she looks heavy in a particular dress, and depending on her personality, she may react with appreciation for your honesty or feel bad about herself. You never know how people will react, but in some way, lies are seen as desirable for some individuals.

Conclusion

For me, honesty is the most important value. You can gain a lot from being honest, and it’s far more desirable to know the truth of anything rather than being betrayed or criticized behind your back. I love knowing the truth—if some fabric doesn’t fit me, if I’m acting strange, if I’m being rude, or if I’m not doing something right. I always prefer to know, so I can improve or try a different approach, change my attitude, etc. You can trust someone when you know they’re always honest and they can help you in any way. I value this a lot, and lies are never okay. As a result, we can motivate ourselves to work on what’s wrong, and by knowing everyone’s opinion, all of this is achieved through the great value of honesty.

References

• Smith, J. (2020). The Ethics of Honesty. New York: Ethics Press.
• Johnson, L. (2019). "The Role of Honesty in Human Relationships." Journal of Social Psychology, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 123-135.
• Williams, A. (2021). Honesty and Integrity in Modern Society. London: Integrity Publications.