Lying as a form of kindness is a very old idea. Some believe that if the truth can hurt a person’s feelings or lead to uncomfortable situations, it should be avoided. If telling a “little white lie” means uncomfortable situations are averted and everyone is happy, this is obviously best. This way of thinking comes from the idea that hurt feelings and discomfort are the absolute worst things ever, and must be avoided at any cost. But, does that hold up to scrutiny?

In a perfect world, everyone would always do the right thing simply because it is right. Sadly, that is not what generally happens. Many people will push the boundaries between right and wrong as often as possible. Some will even default to doing what is wrong as soon as they think they can get away with it, thinking, “If no one knows, and I am not hurting anyone, then what does it matter?” From a purely humanistic perspective, that logic makes some sort of sense. But...