Are lies ever acceptable? Even for a good intention?

Dear John,

Yes, sometimes lying is morally acceptable. Some things are more important than truth-telling, at least in certain circumstances. When the only way to prevent a great harm is to lie, it seems fetishistic to tell the truth.

That said, it isn’t clear if lying is ever acceptable because of good intentions. When lying seems permitted; it seems like there will always be other factors that explain why – e.g. lives will be saved. And when there are just good intentions – e.g., when you think the lie is worth it but you’re wrong – having good intentions doesn’t seem to make it ok.

Thanks for the question!
Errol Lord