Deluding

Deluding refers to the act of deceiving oneself or others. It involves creating or maintaining a false belief, often for personal comfort or to avoid unpleasant realities. This can manifest in various ways, from minor self-deception in everyday life to more significant psychological distortions.

Self-delusion occurs when an individual consciously or unconsciously misinterprets information or suppresses inconvenient truths to maintain a desired perception of themselves or their circumstances. This can involve rationalizing poor decisions, exaggerating achievements, or minimizing failures. The purpose is often to protect ego, avoid anxiety, or maintain a sense of control.

Deluding others involves intentionally misleading them through lies, half-truths, or the withholding of crucial information. The motivation behind this can range from personal gain to protecting someone from perceived harm, though the latter can be a thin justification for manipulation. In a broader sense, societal delusions can arise when widely held beliefs are not grounded in reality, often perpetuated by misinformation or groupthink. Understanding the mechanisms and consequences of deluding is important in psychology, sociology, and ethics.