Political deception harms the public

Why do elected leaders or government officials intentionally deceive each other and the public? Being an influencer to anyone but especially a public representative that people or individuals believe they can trust should hold great ethics over intentional deception behavior. Although there are many definitions for intentional deception, lies or presenting false information in order to manipulate others and gain an advantage is often practiced everyday with politics.

Politicians lie to gain votes, pass laws, power and gain information, They are more prone to lie than other professions.

Does their intention matter? Do you believe there are times when lies can help others or shield them from harm? Do you think lies are told to prevent difficult conversations, such as those involving critical feedback, or addressing sensitive subjects?

Ultimately lying can be a disadvantage for the recipient by depriving him or her of useful information that can promote positive change.

Some believe that even white lies, used to protect others or defend hateful actions against anyone, are damaging because they deny people the experience of reality that could be used to improve their lives. Most people have told a 'white lie.” saying “I’m fine,” when you are not, complimenting unwanted gifts, or telling a bill collector “the check is in the mail.” Being honest should be a law for politicians because their actions, intents, or feelings to provide information that is important to someone who has a right to know, is vital to the people they serve. Having accurate information is crucial because it affects the relationship with the government systems and deprives that person of freedom of choice and informed action.

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‘A Poliltical View’ By Sherry Holliman SHERRY HOLLIMAN (cont.)

Although you may consider yourself honest, very few people reveal all their negative thoughts and feelings about people and their differences.

Many liars believe that it is easier to lie because it takes courage to be vulnerable and real. Most liars worry about the risks of being honest, but give little thought to the risks of lying. Liars must continue to cover-up lies that can be hard to remember. The lies will build up, and if the truth comes out, it may be more hurtful than the original secret once it is exposed. The longer the truth is hidden, the greater the hurdle of revelation.

Lies are damaging to public relationships because they deny reality and foster public distrust with the systems.

Although everyone has lied or is capable of lying, the liar must understand that any lie is considered harmful because they destroy trust and deny freedom of choice. Politicians distort the truth more often, and use self-justifications to continue lies. The lies that you accept from politicians are lies that are seen as acceptable because it’s what the people want to hear. Politicians are perceived as doing what it takes to win the election, but they do not want to get their hands dirty. Meaning the politician will lie, cheat, bargain behind the backs of their supporters, back bite, or simply manipulate everyone.

Based on some voters who repeatedly vote for lying liars it doesn’t matter if the lie was motivated by good intentions about something little society rewards people for white lies and intentional deception. Some people want their politicians to lie to them because they are passionate about politics and see the lies as actually being helpful to get policies changed and implemented. Elected officials should be held at a higher standard to tell the truth! They should be made to tell the truth about lying once exposed. Other than being called a lying liar they should be made to punish themselves in the public to show the voters that politicians are serious about maintaining trust with the people.

Sherry Holliman is a concerned citizen of Crittenden County and has some views on a variety of topics that she wants to share with her neighbors. She serves on the Marion City Council.