I recently read the book “Surrounded by liars” by Thomas Erikson. I loved reading it; especially why people choose to lie.

Reasons to lie

Ever wondered why people lie? Is it a white lie, or is there a much worse behind it?

Lying to protect yourself

For example, people lie to avoid punishment or conviction. Lying can be a way to protect yourself from possible harm or negative consequences. We sometimes think we can avoid these consequences by concealing the truth.

Imagine a living room with a treasured, antique vase on a shelf. The parents have repeatedly warned their son not to play near the vase because of its sentimental and financial value. Yet, one day while his parents are away, the son decided to play ball with a friend. Of course, the ball knocks over the vase, shattering it. When the parents return and discover the broken vase, they immediately ask their son what happened, and he replies in a panic that he saw the cat push the vase off the shelf. Fearing the consequences of his actions, the son shifts the blame on the family cat, an innocent party who can confirm charges yet deny them. Although a simple example, it reflects a basic human tendency to avoid negative consequences or judgements, which can manifest itself in myriad ways.

It is an example most of us will recognize.