Black cats, white lies?

Lies and machinations have existed since time immemorial. Even in Antiquity, philosophers like Plato and Aristotle ruminated over truth and deception. They argued that a “noble lie” could sometimes even be useful. Over the centuries, rulers, churches and the media have all used lies and intrigue to secure their power: with the advent of printing, they not only propagated knowledge, but also such things as smear campaigns against women—for example, through myths about witchcraft. Even in literary classics like Homer’s Odyssey or Machiavelli’s The Prince, lies appear as “clever” political strategies.

In the 20th century, lies became even more dangerous, and sometimes even deadly. This was the case in Germany, when the Nazis sowed hatred and violence through propaganda, thereby carrying out the greatest crime in the history of humankind. Today, as well, some governments deliberately use false information to influence politics. Thanks to the internet, false news reports can spread round the globe in seconds, and be translated into real actions.

At the same time, however, we also encounter little so-called “white lies” online: empty phrases in chats or comments that help people avoid conflict or remain friendly. But the greatest danger lies in the malinformation that consciously sows doubt, divides societies and undermines the foundation of democratic order.