Single Idea 23819

[catalogued under 25. Social Practice / A. Freedoms / 3. Free speech]

Full Idea

Every avoidable material falsehood publicly asserted should become a punishable offence.

Gist of Idea

Deliberate public lying should be punished

Source

Simone Weil (Draft Statement of Human Obligations [1943], p.228)

Book Reference

Weil,Simone: 'An Anthology' [Penguin 1986], p.228


A Reaction

Yes please! The early 21st century has become the time when truth lost all value in public life. Lying to the House of Commons in the UK required instant resignation 50 years ago. Now it is just a source of laughter. No freedom to lie!