Self Deception

Dear all,

This week, I've prepared an article in psychology field, self deception. It is argued that lying to ourselves and convincing ourselves that we are better may actually cast postive influence, leading to a better result in our lives. What's your opinion and your personal experience about self deception? Following is the article about self deception appeared in the Washinton Street Journal.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10000872396390443343704577548973568243982.html?mod=WSJASIA_hpp_MIDDLELSMini

Please read the article and below are questions that we are going to discuss for the coming meeting.

1. Do you agree with the concept of self-deception indicated in the article. Why and why not?
2. Have you ever lied to yourself? Were you aware that you were justing lying at the moment? Did the situation turn out to be better because of the the self-deception process?
3. As a friend, are you always being supportive to your friend even though you know he/she is just lying to themselves? Moreover, do you encourage your friends to lie to themselves? Give one of your personal example.
4. Are there any drawback resulted from the self-deception action?