Why Do Liars Persist? The Enduring Success of Deception in Politics and Religion

Lies are as old as human civilization, yet they seem to thrive more than ever in politics, religion, and society. Why do liars persist and even succeed? Why do some people deceive so effortlessly, without hesitation or remorse? The answer lies in a mix of psychology, social structures, and human nature itself.

The Art of Lying: A Skill That Pays Off

Some people are natural liars. They can fabricate stories, distort facts, and manipulate narratives without breaking a sweat. Their confidence is unwavering, making their lies sound more convincing than the truth. This ability is not just accidental—it is a skill honed over time, reinforced by a system that often rewards deception more than honesty.

In politics, for example, lying is not just tolerated; it is often expected. Politicians twist facts, promise impossible things, and spread misinformation because it works. The public, overwhelmed by constant information, struggles to separate truth from fiction. Over time, people accept lies as part of the game.

In religious systems, deception can serve as a means of control and power. Throughout history, religious leaders have used fear, divine authority, and selective truths to maintain influence. Whether through false prophecies, exaggerated miracles, or rewriting history, religious deception has shaped entire civilizations.

Why Do Liars Win?

  1. People Prefer Comfort Over Truth
    The truth can be harsh, complex, and inconvenient. Lies, on the other hand, are often crafted to be comforting. People would rather believe what feels good than face difficult realities.
  2. Confidence Sells
    A liar who speaks with conviction is often more persuasive than an honest person who hesitates. Confidence, not truth, determines credibility in the eyes of many.
  3. Short-Term Gain Over Long-Term Consequences
    Lies often provide immediate benefits—winning elections, gaining followers, or securing power. The long-term consequences are ignored, postponed, or blamed on others.
  4. Society Rewards Deception
    Whether in politics or religion, those who master the art of deception often rise to the top. They know how to navigate power structures, manipulate emotions, and maintain authority.
  5. People Forget and Forgive Too Easily
    Scandals, false promises, and blatant lies are quickly forgotten in the fast-paced modern world. Politicians and religious leaders exploit short public memory to repeat the cycle of deception.

Can Truth Ever Win?

The persistence of liars does not mean truth is powerless. Awareness, critical thinking, and questioning authority are essential in countering deception. The more people challenge lies and seek facts, the harder it becomes for liars to dominate.

However, as long as society rewards deception and people crave comforting falsehoods, liars will continue to thrive. The battle between truth and lies is eternal, and only a conscious, skeptical public can shift the balance.

What do you think? Is there hope for truth, or will deception always have the upper hand?

  • revrogesison

    Is an Ordained Clergy of the United Methodist Church. Graduated Master of Divinity at Bishop Han Theological Seminary - Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

    Related Posts

    PROFITS OVER PUBLIC GOOD: THE BUSINESS OF POLITICS IN THEPHILIPPINES

    The Filipino political landscape is characterized by a complex interaction of dynamics of
    power, social issues, and economic interests, which together create an environment in which the
    public service often brings a seat for effort. The nation, with its distinct historical context of
    colonialism and ongoing struggles with various forms of governance, presents a unique case for
    the examination of political priorities.

    Read more

    The Inner Self-Lawyer in: The Unsolicited Ideas of the Masses

    Filipinos are deeply interpretative by nature. With the rise of social media, opinions and judgments are formed in an instant—sometimes without considering the full context of an issue. This phenomenon creates an atmosphere where everyone feels like a lawyer, a judge, and even an executioner, interpreting events and controversies based on their own perspective. But what happens when these interpretations are based on partial truths or manipulated narratives?

    Read more

    Leave a Reply