We punish truth yet reward lies

Family values are on the decline because society rewards liars.

Ever felt job burnout and want an unscheduled day off? Did you call work & say you are sick of work & going fishing, or did you say you were just sick? Saying you are sick of work and going fishing may get you fired. Saying you are sick gets, you a sympathy reward and you still have a job and paycheck (reward). Fudge on your resume' to get that job (reward?) Ever ask someone to say you are not there to avoid an unpleasant call or visitor (reward?) Ever spent your bill money on a night out? Did you tell the creditor the truth or, did you try to avoid late fees (i.e.. the checks in the mail?) If you got a DUI that night out but went out drinking again anyway would you admit it to the Court if asked, or hope they did not find out? Do you think your honesty would be rewarded or used against you at some point in this case?

Your child tells you they dented your car, stole money from your wallet, or candy from the store. Do you punish them? Or reward them for telling the truth? Your spouse tells you they lost your savings gambling or had an affair? Do you blow up, hold it against them, or thank them for their honesty?

Society rarely rewards for telling the truth. Honesty and morals have declined since Washington and Lincoln were upheld as examples in our schools. He could not tell a lie - he chopped down the cherry tree. How can we as a society expect children to grow up and pass on good morals when we show them by our actions that telling the truth bears consequences and omission of fact and lying reaps rewards?

Comments