“A man who uses the weapon of the “big lie” is not a good man. He should be rejected by all good citizens, regardless of party. Partisan feeling often runs high in election campaigns. That is understandable. But it should not lead us to permit the use of this dangerous Communist technique in American politics.” – Harry Truman, US President
— Address Before the National Conference on Citizenship on September 17th, 1952
The quote from Harry S. Truman’s address before the National Conference on Citizenship on September 17, 1952, reflects his strong condemnation of dishonesty and manipulation in political discourse. Truman, who served as the 33rd President of the United States from 1945 to 1953, was known for his straightforwardness and commitment to integrity in governance.
In this statement, Truman specifically refers to the “big lie,” a term that suggests the deliberate use of falsehoods on a grand scale to mislead the public. He asserts that anyone who resorts to such tactics is not a “good man” and should be rejected by all citizens, regardless of their political affiliation. This call for integrity transcends partisan lines, emphasizing that ethical behavior should be a universal expectation for all public figures.
Truman’s reference to the “dangerous Communist technique” highlights the context of the Cold War era, during which anti-communist sentiment was pervasive in American society. He was concerned that the tactics used by totalitarian regimes, including the spread of propaganda and misinformation, could infiltrate American politics and undermine democratic values. By associating the “big lie” with communism, Truman warns against the erosion of truth in political discourse, which he viewed as a threat to democracy itself.
The quote also acknowledges the heightened emotions that often accompany election campaigns, recognizing that partisan feelings can lead to divisive rhetoric. However, Truman insists that such feelings should not justify the acceptance of dishonest tactics. His emphasis on rejecting the “big lie” serves as a call to uphold the principles of honesty and accountability in political life.
This message remains relevant in contemporary political discourse, where misinformation and divisive rhetoric can significantly impact public opinion and democratic processes. Truman’s insistence on the importance of truth-telling and ethical conduct in politics serves as a reminder of the responsibility that citizens and leaders alike have to foster a political culture grounded in integrity and respect for the truth. His words encourage vigilance against the manipulation of information and the necessity of maintaining high ethical standards in public service.
