I do not like an injurious lie, except when it injures somebody else.

What did Mark Twain mean by:

I do not like an injurious lie, except when it injures somebody else.

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This quote is a paradoxical statement that reflects on the nature of lies and the potential harm they can cause. It suggests that the speaker dislikes lies that cause harm, except when they harm someone else. It’s a darkly humorous take on human nature, suggesting that people might not mind lies as much when they are not the ones getting hurt.

The quote reflects on the subjective nature of morality. It suggests that people often have double standards when it comes to morality – they dislike when something negative happens to them, but may feel differently when the same thing happens to others. This is a common human trait, often driven by self-interest and lack of empathy.

In today’s context, this quote could be seen as a commentary on the prevalence of fake news and misinformation. People may spread harmful lies about others without considering the potential damage, especially when they believe it serves their interests or aligns with their beliefs.

In terms of personal development, this quote could serve as a reminder to be more self-aware and empathetic. It encourages us to consider the potential harm our actions could cause to others, even if they don’t directly affect us. It’s a call to practice empathy and fairness, to treat others as we would like to be treated, and to avoid actions that could harm others, even if they don’t harm us directly.

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