Whenever someone asks you a question there are a range of responses, but in that universe of possibilities there are only three options:

  • lie
  • tell the truth
  • refuse to answer

In refusing to answer I see two approaches, the active and passive:

  • active: something like “that is too personal” or “none of your business”
  • passive: play semantics

Each method has its place. You can learn a lot about yourself and your peers if you observe when and why you (or others) apply these responses.

One of my favorite songs on the subject is Policy of Truth by Depeche Mode with some choice lyrics:

Hide what you have to hide / And tell what you have to tell / You'll see your problems multiplied / If you continually decide / To faithfully pursue / The policy of truth
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