We demand honesty as a core value from politicians and lovers alike. Yet small and not-so-small lies have a habit of creeping into our lives. Is it possible to be completely honest – and would this be desirable? Is lying a necessity for life or should we insist on honesty as a means for social cohesion and trusting relationships?

In this issue of IAI News, feminist philosopher Rae Langton asks: what, if anything, is wrong with lying? We instinctively assume that lying is wrong, but is there a difference between deception and falsehood? Is lying wrong in and of itself, or only for its negative effects?