On Lying by Saint Augustine of Hippo audiobook.

Genre: philosophy

In On Lying, Saint Augustine of Hippo tackles a question as practical as it is unsettling: can a lie ever be justified? Writing as a pastor, teacher, and philosopher, Augustine examines the everyday ways people bend the truth and the serious spiritual and social consequences that follow. With a careful, step-by-step method, he defines what counts as a lie, explores the role of intention and speech, and tests common excuses: protecting someone from harm, avoiding shame, helping a friend, or defending the faith. Along the way, he presents vivid scenarios drawn from family life, civic affairs, and religious controversy, asking listeners to weigh mercy against integrity and short-term outcomes against the formation of character. More than a list of rules, this concise treatise is a disciplined inquiry into conscience, responsibility, and the meaning of truthful communication. Augustine challenges the listener to consider how truth shapes trust, how habits of deception distort the self, and what it means to live with a steady heart when the cost of honesty feels too high.

For ad-free listening try our premium subscription

Chapters (Approximate)

(00:00:00) Chapter 01

(00:53:13) Chapter 02

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices