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Single Idea 21032

[catalogued under 3. Truth / A. Truth Problems / 3. Value of Truth]

Full Idea

The duty to tell the truth applies only to those who deserve the truth.

Gist of Idea

Speak truth only to those who deserve the truth

Source

Michael J. Sandel (Justice: What's the right thing to do? [2009], 05)

A Reaction

[from Benjamin Constant, in opposition to Kant] I prefer the idea that we should use people 'after our own honour and dignity' (Hamlet), which means speaking the truth even to Donald Trump (for those of you who remember 2018). But not always.

Book Reference

Sandel,Michael J.: 'Justice: what's the right thing to do?' [Penguin 2010], p.132