lie

A lie is a statement presented as fact that the speaker knows is false or believes to be false, made with the intention to mislead others. The essential elements are a false proposition and an intent to deceive, though some discussions distinguish lies from accidental falsehoods by focusing on willfulness.

Etymology and overview: The word lie originates from languages that denote falsehood, and in many cultures lying is treated as a moral fault. Philosophical and cultural traditions have long debated whether deception can ever be justified or whether truth-telling is a binding obligation. Historical discussions include the idea of noble lies used to maintain social order, alongside rigorous critiques of deception in ethics and politics.

Types and examples: Lying can occur as a lie of commission (stating something known to be false), a lie of omission (withholding information that would change a listener’s belief), or through exaggeration and fabrication. White lies are often described as small or socially protective deceptions intended to avoid harm or preserve politeness. Lies can be explicit or implicit, and they may be motivated by self-interest, fear, revenge, or political gain. Misinformation refers to false information spread without harmful intent, while disinformation denotes deliberate manipulation.

Consequences and norms: Lies can erode trust, damage relationships, and undermine institutions. In many legal systems, lying under oath constitutes perjury and carries penalties. Ethically, positions range from absolutist prohibitions on lying to consequentialist or virtue-based views that permit deception under certain circumstances if outcomes are favorable or character is cultivated as honest over time.

See also: truth, deception, misinformation, perjury, ethics of truthfulness.