Telling lies is a really terrible thing. These days, lies and silence are the two greatest sins in human society you might say. In reality, we tell lots of lies, and we often break into silence. However, if we were constantly talking year-round, and telling only the truth, truth would probably lose some of its value.

Telling lies is a really terrible thing. These days, lies and silence are the two greatest sins in human society you might say. In reality, we tell lots of lies, and we often break into silence. However, if we were constantly talking year-round, and telling only the truth, truth would probably lose some of its value.

📖 Haruki Murakami

🌍 Japanese  |  👨‍💼 Writer

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This quote prompts profound reflection on the nature of honesty and silence within human society. It points out the paradox that, although lies are morally condemned, deception and silence are often deeply ingrained in social interactions. Our society tends to value truth highly, yet in practice, we frequently engage in dishonesty—whether to protect feelings, preserve social harmony, or avoid confrontations. Silence, on the other hand, can serve as a form of nondisclosure or omission, which may be just as impactful as spoken lies. The notion that constant honesty could diminish the value of truth is particularly thought-provoking. It suggests that a world where everyone always speaks openly and truthfully might lead to a normalization, diminishing the significance we assign to honesty. This aligns with the idea that certain societal norms and behaviors depend on moderated speech—sometimes withholding information or choosing silence is a way to maintain peace or avoid conflict. The balance seems delicate; perhaps the beauty or strength of human society lies in this interplay—the discretion, the silence, and the occasional, sometimes painful, truth. This quote invites us to consider whether absolute transparency is desirable, or if a measured approach—between honesty and silence—contributes to a more harmonious social fabric. Ultimately, it raises questions about human nature and the moral considerations surrounding truth and deception, reminding us that the ethics of honesty are often more complex than they appear at first glance.

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July 15, 2025

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