Band 7 essay sample: white lies or honesty.

Everyone tells small lies from time to time, often to avoid upsetting someone. Some believe this is acceptable when it protects another person, while others insist that we should always tell the truth. In my view, a kind lie is sometimes the right choice in everyday life, but honesty must come first when the truth affects someone's future.

Those who defend such lies argue that the truth can cause unnecessary pain. A white lie about small matters, such as a gift or a new haircut, costs nothing and keeps relationships pleasant. For example, when my cousin asked about her new hairstyle last year, I tell her it looked great, although I did not like it. If I had said what I thought, she would have felt embarassed for weeks, and nothing would have changed.

On the other hand, people who put honesty first believe that lies damage trust. Once someone discovers that a friend has lied, even about something minor, they start to doubt everything that person says. A small lie can easily destroy the trust that took years to construct. Moreover, people need accurate information to make decisions, so hiding the reality from a patient can lead to serious problems.

In my opinion, the answer depends of what the truth can change. If the information helps a person make a better decision, for example about their health or career, they deserve to hear it, even if it hurts. However, when the truth only hurts and changes nothing, a gentle lie is more humane. The honesty is important, but kindness matters too.

In conclusion, there is some truth in both views. Small, kind lies can protect feelings in daily life, but when honest information can help someone, it should never be hidden.