Beyond Good and Evil · Chapter
Aphorism 180 explained
A brief aphorism exploring the concept of a virtuous or 'innocent' lie, suggesting that such deception can be a sign of genuine commitment to a cause.
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A brief aphorism exploring the concept of a virtuous or 'innocent' lie, suggesting that such deception can be a sign of genuine commitment to a cause.
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Narrative arc
Story tension across the book.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
The passage reveals the Wanderer's ultimate psychological exhaustion with seeking truth, climaxing in his desp…
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“There is an innocence in lying which is the sign of good faith in a cause.”
A lie told with a sense of purity or lack of malice can paradoxically demonstrate one's sincere dedication to a larger purpose.
This aphorism presents a complex, potentially paradoxical view of truth and deception in service of a higher ideal.