In Philip Pullman's "The Amber Spyglass," the author explores the complexities of truth and deception. The assertion that "A truth referred to with bad faith is worse than all lies" reflects the idea that when truth is manipulated or presented insincerely, it can have more detrimental effects than outright lies. This suggests that the intent behind communicating the truth matters significantly, as misinformation or deceit can lead to harm and mistrust.

The quote emphasizes the importance of integrity in our interactions. It implies that honesty, when tainted by ulterior motives, can erode trust and result in deeper conflicts than falsehoods. In essence, while lies can be harmful, a betrayal of truth—when wielded unethically—can breed greater discord and suffering, underscoring the moral responsibility that comes with sharing knowledge and information.