Honesty is generally considered a core virtue, but in some cases bending the truth may be necessary for survival. While lying is often seen as unethical, there are also situations where it can be considered right to protect oneself or others. Bending the truth can be justified in life-threatening situations, social interactions and professional settings.
First, honesty may not always be the best policy in life-threatening situations. For example, during wars or repressive regimes, people have covered up their true identities to escape from persecution. If someone is in immediate danger, lying about their identity or location may save their life. Similarly, in situations of self-defence, deception can be a means to mislead an attacker and ensure safety.
Secondly, bending the truth in social interactions can help maintain harmony and avoid unnecessary conflicts. White lies – small, harmless lies – are often used to protect someone’s feelings. For example, if a friend asks if her new haircut looks good and it doesn’t, telling a small lie can prevent her self-esteem from being hurt. While complete honesty is optimal, complete truthfulness in all situations can sometimes lead to unnecessary pain.
Moreover, in professional and academic environments, it may be necessary to bend the truth from time to time for strategic reasons. For example, at an event I organised, a speaker was expected to teach a particular tool, but instead introduced another tool. When participants expressed their worries, I framed the situation as an opportunity for active learning rather than a setback. I emphasised that the competition was not just about winning, but about gaining knowledge that they would keep in mind as they needed to explore and adapt. This example illustrates how reframing a situation can turn setbacks into strengths.
To sum up, while truthfulness is a valuable principle, bending the truth can be necessary in specific circumstances, such as survival situations, social relationships, and strategic decision-making. However, it should be done with caution and only when required. Otherwise, consistent dishonesty can damage trust and integrity in the long run.