[tony_codes]

I strongly disagree with this whole sentiment. The vulnerable need actual protection, not perceived. Invention that is not grounded in reality won't work. Which grand vision starts from falsehood? A possibility not yet proven is not a lie, it's a potential. People united is not a fundamental virtue, people united under virtuous pretenses is of value; people united under a lie is more likely a cult, or a sick society.

[xj]

While transparency and honesty are noble ideals, governments (to take one example) often navigate complex environments involving diplomacy, national security, and political strategy. Do you think it’s possible to run a government entirely devoid of lies? And by government, I am imagining the "for the people, by the people" government that wants good for the people.

Note: I am not pro lies, but challenging myself to think from the other angle.

[verdverm]

The official statements on masks, early on during Covid so the limited stock would not be bought out and instead available for medical staff, comes to mind.