ETHICS

Ethics of Speech

The Question:	Is it permitted to say something derogatory about someone if it is true, and will not cause him financial damage?
Choices:	Yes, it is permitted. No, it is prohibited.
Your Answer:	Yes, it is permitted.
That is incorrect. Jewish law is not only concerned with avoiding damage, but seeks to perfect both the individual and society.
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The Question:	Is it permitted to say something derogatory about someone if it is true, and will not cause him financial damage?
Choices:	Yes, it is permitted. No, it is prohibited.
Your Answer:	No, it is prohibited.
Correct! The Torah forbids derogatory gossip, even if it is true and even if it does not cause damage to its subject. "Lashon Hara" or "evil speech", contradicts the idea of love of one's fellow human-being, and damages the character of the person speaking it. It is also impossible to be sure that the gossip will not cause the subject any damage at all (Chafetz Chaim, Laws of Speech).
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