A Sad Commentary

It is unfortunate that a country as great as the United States is becoming known as a "nation of liars". All one needs to do is turn on a news broadcast or pick up a newspaper to learn of the continuous frauds and shams that occur in this society. It also regrettable that this new form of immorality in our nation stems from the top. If the president can lie, then why can't the people? It is interesting to note that a television show called "Shame On You!" on public television has gained such popularity.

The program is based entirely on uncovering the scandals of businessmen, businesses and corporations. The fact that this show is successful and can air many times, says not only that lying does exist in our society, but that lying is becoming a common practice today among the public masses.

Since one can say that the American society has become very comfortable with lies, it's safe to conclude that the lying at the top level of society (i.e. the President) has succeeded in trickling down. In the past years the country has had many "role models" that did not send out model messages to their followers. One need only look at Nixon who lied with Watergate, or even the Clintons who are involved in Whitewater, to see that lying is indeed a part of the "leaders" of our country. To say which came first, public or top level deception would be unfair. Since our top level was once the public, it is difficult to say which party is responsible for this downshift in our society.

Lying at the top level of society is a dangerous thing for many reasons. Firstly, these high level people are constantly in the publics' eye which observes and judges every falsehood they make. Secondly, after observing these "high" officials and their lies, the public will judge them and some will come to the conclusion that it is okay to emulate them and lie as well. The simple question "If they can do it, why can't I?" leads to what Jim Lehrer feared-"...we Americans are becoming a nation of liars."