Honesty is in the Eyes of the Beholder

When we talk about our business and political leaders, not to mention our colleagues, friends and family members, we often mention the importance of honesty, but what do we really mean by that? Are there acceptable deviations to this trait? Is any deviation, no matter how minor or well intentioned, a “slippery slope” to more dishonesty in the future?

Over the years I have found the concept of absolutism to be a barrier in many cases to understanding ourselves as well as others, both of which are extremely important to leaders, followers and friends alike. Absolutes become even more complicated and difficult to identify when you consider the cross-cultural aspects of globalization, i.e., what is always polite, what is always rude?

So, is honesty, as it relates to being virtuous, a relative concept?” Carol Jones from Interface Australia thinks so. Listen to what she ahs to say.