“Nearly every kind of statement or action can be meant to deceive” (Bok 1999, 242). According to a study conducted by University of Massachusetts psychologist Robert S. Feldman, “People tell a considerable number of lies in everyday conversation. It was a very surprising result” (Journal of Basic and Applied Social Psychology 2002, 165). From politics to the entertainment industry to law enforcement, all careers involve some form of deception or manipulation. Have the rigors of daily life required that society’s actions are justified by carrying a “License to Lie?” In her book, Lying: Moral Choice in Public and Private Life, Sissela Bok discusses moral and ethical principles for deceptive practices. Our discussion will begin with explanations of truthfulness and deception, as well as humans’ thought process when deciding whether to lie. We will continue with a thorough examination of traditional
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Reporting a story’s truth has taken a backseat to sensationalism. “Stories with useful information are less likely to be shared virally than other types of content” (Holiday, 71). Bok’s approach of justification can be easily applied to today’s social media. “Publicity without truthfulness is misleading and thus worthless” (Bok 1999, 92). I believe that, before releasing a story, Bok would eliminate the possibility of a false story by taking the time to check the facts of the story. However, in the rare instance she released a blog for the sake of gaining readership; she would publicly justify her actions. According to Bok’s approach, justification would first take the form of asking herself what was the motivating factor for publishing the blog. Second, she would most likely retract her story and admit the truth by issuing an apology. Third, Bok would publicly ask reasonable persons, her readers and industry professionals, their opinion of her
Reporting a story’s truth has taken a backseat to sensationalism. “Stories with useful information are less likely to be shared virally than other types of content” (Holiday, 71). Bok’s approach of justification can be easily applied to today’s social media. “Publicity without truthfulness is misleading and thus worthless” (Bok 1999, 92). I believe that, before releasing a story, Bok would eliminate the possibility of a false story by taking the time to check the facts of the story. However, in the rare instance she released a blog for the sake of gaining readership; she would publicly justify her actions. According to Bok’s approach, justification would first take the form of asking herself what was the motivating factor for publishing the blog. Second, she would most likely retract her story and admit the truth by issuing an apology. Third, Bok would publicly ask reasonable persons, her readers and industry professionals, their opinion of her