Plausible Denial and Plausible Transparency
We have heard of “plausible denial,” a phrase which
describes a lie which comes across enough like the truth to quiet the
critics or satisfy the investigators. What
is “plausible transparency”?
Plausible transparency refers to somebody coming across
as if he or she were open and honest, but, in fact, was hiding something.
Republicans would point to former President Clinton’s manipulation
of English with a straight face in order to deny his misadventure with
Monica Lewinski. Democrats would
point to President Bush’s congenial style, as when he leans on the lectern
and speaks informally during a press conference, thereby projecting candor
as he pitches the official lie.
If we consider plausible transparency a problem—as we
should, because people die and scarce funds are misspent—what can we do
about it?
You have heard of too many cooks in the kitchen
spoiling the broth? Try this new
one: many ears to the wall spoil
the lie. The only way to ensure
that those in power, be they in government or corporate
America
, stay honest is to stand by them and around them when they do their work.
Said another way, be the guardian angels, help them to avoid
temptation.
We need more people in government decision-making and
in corporate decision-making, so that nobody dare to use plausible denial or
plausible transparency.
If you answer the
multiple-choice questions below and e-mail to lessonanswers@mymontebello.com
with “Lesson answers” in the subject field, you will be credited toward
a “certificate of recognition in community affairs” to be awarded in
2007 by a local nonprofit organization.
1. What is plausible transparency?
(a) The ability to come across as candid when telling a
lie.
(b) A new type of glass which filters out sunlight but
lets in the warmth of the sun.
2. What do we do about plausible transparency?
(a) Let it go, as it is a common human trait.
(b) Involve more people in decision-making, so that
plausible transparency would not work.
January 17, 2008