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About this quote

What does it mean?
There are many vicious intentions that slip into an innocent phrase; sometimes lying is as involuntary as sweating.
In plain terms
Bad motives can hide in harmless words, and lying can be as automatic as a bodily function.
What can you take from it?
Watch for hidden motives in everyday speech.

Where it applies

  • political rhetoric
  • personal conversations

Putting it to work

  • question underlying intent
  • practice honest communication

Questions to consider

  • How can we detect concealed deceit?
  • When is unintentional lying forgivable?

Another view

Comparing lying to sweating may downplay moral responsibility.

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