Several years ago, I watched as an organization went through a series of conflicts that could have come from an Agatha Christie novel. People who had no reason to differ were at each other's throats, rumors were common, and clues as to their source quickly hit brick walls.
As the mystery was examined, it was clear to some of us that the extreme and hostile actions were sparked by information carefully fed into the system by one executive.
Most of that information was false.
It did not come from mere differences of opinion. The organization was being manipulated by a world-class liar.
Most of us presume that while people may not agree, they will at least tell the truth.
Not so. Skilled liars thrive on that presumption. They also thrive on the extreme reluctance to accuse someone of lying.
And that is a truth which should be remembered.
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