Quote by Lin Yutang
Society can exist only on the basis that there is some amount of polished lying and that no one says exactly what he thinks.
Summary
This quote suggests that society thrives when individuals engage in a certain level of superficiality and deception, where honest expression of thoughts is withheld. It implies that for social unity to be maintained, it is necessary for people to embrace a certain degree of tactful dishonesty, refraining from voicing their true opinions openly. This mindset acknowledges the importance of social harmony and the role of decorum in maintaining relationships, even if it means sacrificing complete transparency in communication.
By Lin Yutang