David Brooks’ column today offers an overview of Dan Ariely’s new book The (Honest) Truth About Dishonesty. If the book is as Brooks describes it, there are some interesting implications for religion in society. Here’s a snippet from the column:
I’d add that you really shouldn’t shoot for goodness, which is so vague and forgiving. You should shoot for rectitude. We’re mostly unqualified to judge our own moral performances, so attach yourself to some exterior or social standards.