Is little white lies ethical

Answer 1

a lie is a lie no matter how big or how small. and lies dont really have colors its just a way for people to try to make it look innocent; however, depending on the reason vary from person to person, are you lying to hurt someone or help them?

For example:

1) a person got into a car crash and they ask if they are going to be ok? and you say i am sure of it, it does not look that back.

then that could be considered be a lie that you were trying to protect the other person.

2) you go out with your friends and you do something that your were not supposed to and you tweek it to be in your favor. this is not a healthy lie.

your lies should be consideration for the other person... and not " well i did not want to hurt my spouse when i cheated, so i just wont tell him/her.

this lie looks out for you not the other person.

Answer 2

In some cases they can head off needlessly frightening or embarrassing circumstances. It is a bit like evasive action, sometimes a necessary tactic when dodging ice floes, etc. Not to make the best course possible but often necessary. Th analogy with evasive action is a good one. When I was a kid I asked my mother about the trademark of the Hanover Shoe company . She said it was a Fishing rod, and these are often leather-covered. Actually, it was a buggy whip which she may or may not have known. No harm was done.