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The truth about fiction and lies

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Why you can trust SCMP

Have you ever wondered what is the difference between fiction and lies?

When we say that something is fictional we mean that it is made up, that it is not based on the truth. Instead it is borne out of the imagination.

To write fiction is not only acceptable in society, but is, in fact, honourable or even praiseworthy. Telling lies, on the other hand, is considered wrong and dishonourable. But what is the difference really?

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Imagine that you have broken your arm. You broke it because you were clumsy and tripped and fell down the stairs on your way to school. Breaking your arm because you tripped and fell sounds far less exciting than saying you broke your arm protecting an old woman from a pickpocket.

So, if you go with the second explanation, are you lying or are you creating fiction? How do we ever really know the difference?

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