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About this quote

What does it mean?
Thatcher suggests that while deliberate lies are unacceptable, being evasive is sometimes necessary in public or political life.
In plain terms
You should not tell lies, but being evasive is sometimes necessary.
What can you take from it?
Distinguish between deliberate lying and necessary evasiveness.

Where it applies

  • public speaking
  • negotiation
  • conflict

Putting it to work

  • be direct when possible
  • assess context
  • maintain trust

Questions to consider

  • When is evasiveness acceptable?
  • Where is the line drawn?

Another view

It can be used to justify misleading people in ambiguous ways.

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