How We Lie

[Draggingtree]

Ace of Spades: How We Lie —Ace

via @rdbrewer4, some basic rules for spotting a liar.

 

There are four simple rules of thumb for spotting a Lie:

 

1. Avoiding personal pronouns. Liars distance themselves from their lies by avoiding the word "I." They choose to say "we," or speak in convoluted passive-voice sentences in which no subject is present.

 

2. Using negative language. The example given is "My stupid phone's battery died. I hate that thing." The idea is that liars feel subconsciously guilty about their lie (or at least uncomfortable at being in the position of lying), and add in unnecessary negative emotional language in their lie.

 

3. Offering simple explanations. Liars are forced to make up stories, and when they do make them up, they tend to be very simple, straightforward tales.

http://ace.mu.nu/archives/352975.php