Let’s Talk About It: Recent Episodes
Lauren Murphy
Is honesty always the best policy? Lying and deception have been historically used to save lives, protect others, and ultimately do good. Is there a moral defense for lying? Let’s talk about it.
Bringing it all together and (attempting) to tie up any loose ends, ultimately proposing an answer to the question- is deception moral?
Exodus 1 reveals midwives Shiprah and Puah who defied Pharoh's orders in attempt to save lives. Harriet Tubman courageously led hundreds of people to freedom via the Underground Railroad. Is deception via avoiding the law moral?
In Judges 2, Rahab hides spies and lies about their whereabouts when authorities come looking for them, saving their lives. During World War II, France was occupied by Germany, which didn't stop French citizens from housing Jewish children and helping downed Allied airmen. Is deception to protect other's lives moral?
Abraham lies about his wife being his sister in Genesis 12. Jimmy Carter embellishes some facts during his 1976 presidential campaign. Is deception via half truths and exaggerations moral?
Jael is a Bible character in Judges 4, who helps the enemy win a battle. George Washington used spies to gain an edge during the Revolutionary War. Is deception via false identities moral?