Dishonesty In William Damon's 'The Death Of Honesty'

William Damon, a professor of education at Stanford University, analyzes the value of honesty and the ways in which people in our current society may be falling short of or disrespecting the moral and ethical responsibility of honesty. His article “The Death of Honesty”, written in a formal style and neutral tone, uses the appeals of logos and ethos to convince the reader of this societal dysfunction. He first considers the fact that honesty has some exceptions in which it is acceptable to lie. Secondly, he discusses the importance of candor in human relationships, and that dishonesty is socially impairing our current society. Lastly, he analyzes educational settings which seem to be in recent years neglecting to teach and reinforce morals

Damon explains in certain situations or careers disinformation is required to protect feelings, or to ensure advancement or survival. For example, reassuring a teenager that they “look good” when in fact they may not look picture perfect, or a politician who is addressing the public regarding a controversial matter. It is true that complete honesty may not be favourable in all circumstances, especially in situations in which it is a protective or survival measure. Citing the work of famous author George Orwell, Damon discusses the dishonesty built into political speech. This is contradictory to the fact that the author claims that the value in honesty is dwindling or was held at higher regard in the past, even if it is an example of exception to the truth, it still shows no ultimate change in peoples behaviour only gives example that dishonesty has existed always. George Orwell wrote the essay “Politics and the English Language” in 1946, 69 years ago. If politicians have been less than transparent in their use of political language for at least the last 69 years, then nothing has changed and this does not signify the recent or pending breakdown of society due to dishonest