Why do politicians consistently lie?

Question

I emailed my MP on the same issue (drug laws) several times, each time citing carefully considered scientific evidence.

He disagrees with me despite all my evidence put forward, which I respect, however, it is his resorting to lying that bothers me.

He said in his most recent letter that "the government's message on drugs is clear" which is obviously false. If that were true they would be categorized according to the harm they do, but they aren't. He goes on to babble about how drug use is falling with no stats to support this.

I realize this is just an example and that some politicians do tell the truth. However they seem to be in a minority.

Just because a politician disagrees with something why do they have to resort to lying? What's in it for them? If they were in another position any view discrediting the evidence would be deemed irresponsible e.g you wouldn't trust a fisherman who ignores all the facts about declines in fish stocks. They need to at least try and be honest.

Thanks

Jerry Lundegaard · Accepted Answer

Because that's what voters want.

Anonymous · Answer

They lie like rugs,they always have,its how they keep their very cushy jobs, when did you last hear a politician answer a question?they can't! i am sure there is a special school where they go to learn how to never answer a direct question,and to never tell the truth,if they told us the truth we would never vote for any of them again,its a game they play, with us in the middle,vote one lot in for a while,they break all the lying promises they have made while they have been getting our votes, so we put the other lot in,surely they can't be as bad?but of course they are! remember 1997 when a lot of us were fooled by blair's big cheesy grin? he led us straight into an unlawful war,we are still paying for that,back up a bit and see thatcher promise us peace and harmony,she was on the steps of no.10 the day after being elected,we had inflation through the roof,three million unemployed and strikes all over the country! they do not have to give you the facts,whether they are right or wrong,they keep their job,if their pay was performance related they would all owe us money!!! my rant of the day!

taxreff · Answer

Politicians often lie in order to stay out of trouble with the voters.  Its important, though, to know the difference between lying and disagreeing on the issues.

mike v · Answer

The thing that is in it for them is getting elected again, and not upsetting the money train that keeps them in the gravy.

Why do politicians consistently lie?

4 Answers