White Lies/Social Lies
While there are several types of lies, most people accept, and many times expect, white lies. White lies, also referred to as social lies, are those false statement made in polite conversation. From the two categories of lies mentioned previously, white lies fall under the category of low stake lies. When a dinner is being held and those eating compliment the cook on their culinary skills even though the food is hardly edible, they are telling a social lie. These lies are meant to spare feelings and are not only acceptable, but many times encouraged in society.
Many parents tell their children that is is wrong to lie. Yet, at birthdays when presents are received they are told to always be polite and tell everyone thank you for the wonderful presents. This can confuse children because they are stuck at a point of lying and getting in trouble for telling the truth about how much they hate that hand-knit sweater. This cycle continues as a child grows and learns more about social interaction. It becomes acceptable to compliment people on their appearance and cooking because it is a kind thing to do, not because it is truthful. Society expects feelings to be spared and these 'social lies' to be told to keep everything running smoothy.
When asked for a definition of a lie, many individuals will say that a lie is a false statement. Yet, when prompted how they feel about social lies, they continues that they do not put white lies in the same category.
"They just don't count. We're taught to be polite and lie if it means keeping someone happy. I mean if it isn't really harming someone, it's not a big deal. Sometimes you need to lie to keep the calm."
This comment was made by a college student who works with young children on a regular basis. She admits that there are times when teachers and those involved in child care will have to lie to keep children calm ans situations under control. She believes that white lies are meant to keep a sense of order and though they are falsehoods, they are necessary.
Many parents tell their children that is is wrong to lie. Yet, at birthdays when presents are received they are told to always be polite and tell everyone thank you for the wonderful presents. This can confuse children because they are stuck at a point of lying and getting in trouble for telling the truth about how much they hate that hand-knit sweater. This cycle continues as a child grows and learns more about social interaction. It becomes acceptable to compliment people on their appearance and cooking because it is a kind thing to do, not because it is truthful. Society expects feelings to be spared and these 'social lies' to be told to keep everything running smoothy.
When asked for a definition of a lie, many individuals will say that a lie is a false statement. Yet, when prompted how they feel about social lies, they continues that they do not put white lies in the same category.
"They just don't count. We're taught to be polite and lie if it means keeping someone happy. I mean if it isn't really harming someone, it's not a big deal. Sometimes you need to lie to keep the calm."
This comment was made by a college student who works with young children on a regular basis. She admits that there are times when teachers and those involved in child care will have to lie to keep children calm ans situations under control. She believes that white lies are meant to keep a sense of order and though they are falsehoods, they are necessary.