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About this quote

What does it mean?
Social gatherings require polite fictions and untrue statements to function.
In plain terms
Parties involve saying things that are not true.
What can you take from it?
Politeness often involves white lies.

Where it applies

  • parties
  • social etiquette
  • diplomacy

Putting it to work

  • prioritize harmony over harsh truth
  • understand social rules

Questions to consider

  • When is lying polite?
  • Why do we need social fictions?

Another view

Constant dishonesty can erode trust.

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