On Lying by Hilaire Belloc (1923)
The work explores the concept of lying and its effects on individuals and society. It argues that lying is a fundamental aspect of human nature and that it can be both beneficial and detrimental depending on the context. The text examines various forms of deception, including white lies, exaggerations, and outright falsehoods, and considers their impact on relationships, social norms, and personal integrity.
By Hilaire Belloc · First published 1923 · Genre: Essay, Satire, Philosophy · 1,307 words
First lines
He that will set out to lie without having cast up his action and judged it this way and that, will fail, not in his lie, indeed, but in the object of it; which is, _imprimis_, to deceive, but _in ultimis_ or fundamentally, to obtain profit by his deceit, as Aristotle and another clearly show. For they that lie, lie not vainly and wantonly as for sport (saving a very few that are habitual), but rather for some good to be got or evil to be evaded: as when men lie of their prowess with the fist, though they have fought none -- no, not even little children -- or in the field, though they have done no more than shoot a naked blackamoor at a furlong. These lie for honour. Not so our stockers and jobbers, who lie for money direct, or our parliament men, who lie bestraught lest worse befall them.
What this Textopian page supports
On Lying is listed on Textopian as a short story by Hilaire Belloc, dated 1923 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Hilaire Belloc
- Date: 1923 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Essay, Satire, Philosophy, Social Commentary, Humor
- Length: 1,307 words
- Structure: 1 section, 12 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Work identity for On Lying by Hilaire Belloc
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Essay — The work is a reflective and analytical piece discussing the nature and purpose of lying, fitting the characteristics of an essay.
- Satire — The text employs humor and irony to critique human behavior and societal norms regarding lying.
- Philosophy — The work explores philosophical themes about truth, deception, and morality, referencing thinkers like Aristotle.
- Social Commentary — The text comments on societal practices and the roles of different social classes in the context of lying.
Tags
Philosophy · Ethics · Moralism · Satire · Social Commentary · Critique of Society · Lying as a Social Tool · Deception · Honesty · Truthfulness · Morality · Human Nature