Current Events > Is it okay to lie if it prevents emotional harm to another?

(+) Yeah! (+)

For example is it OK to tell someone "it's going to be ok" when it's very clear it isn't?

Yeah

Until they immediately know it's a lie

yes lying is a perfectly natural thing

It depeeeeeends. Kind of a complicated topic for a quick gamefaqs post, but the problem with lying is it breaks trust. If there's no expectation of trust more or in the future, it's morally fine. As a general rule, I'm against lying, but it depends.

That's why Buddhism doesn't have any religious commandment to never lie but instead, urges folks to aim for "Right Speech" which describes speak only with the right intentions. Whether it's withholding truth to spare unnecessary fear or going ahead to speak truthfully if it benefits the listener.

It's not so much the action but the intended result.

ChocoboMogALT posted...

If there's no expectation of trust more or in the future, it's morally fine.

What does this mean? Like let's say you're lying to your kid. Obviously they have some expectation of trust from you further on in the future, so in this case you shouldn't lie? Sorry if I midunderstand.

Depends how transparent the lie is. If it's really obvious you're just insulting their intelligence

Billyionaire posted...

For example is it OK to tell someone "it's going to be ok" when it's very clear it isn't?

I say no. I personally prefer say and be told things how they are

Billyionaire posted...

What does this mean? Like let's say you're lying to your kid. Obviously they have some expectation of trust from you further on in the future, so in this case you shouldn't lie? Sorry if I midunderstand.

Yeah, I don't think you should lie to your kids (in general). Santa doesn't exist and people die when they're dead, etc. Use child appropriate verbiage, but don't make shit up just to make your life as a parent easier. If you lie and tell them it's illegal to turn on the lights while the car is moving, they'll lose trust and respect for you when they find out you lied.