Book Examines The Truth About Lying

(CANVAS STAFF REPORTS) - Lying is one of the first traits we learn, according to a University of Massachusetts psychology professor.

Robert Feldman, author of the book "Liar: The Truth About Lying," said to the UK Independent said lying is a basic skill that people learn early in life.

He referred to studies in which a child is left in a room and forbidden to peek at a toy. While not necessarily a willingness, he said they have an ability to lie as young as three years old.

Feldman said people also hone the skill all their lives in order to achieve success, including socially, professionally and sexually. He said it can also be seen in the world around us. This is evident despite studies proving lying causes emotional distress, Feldman said.

"If you can fool a member of another species and it allows you evade detection, or it allows you to evade being eaten, then that gives you an advantage," Feldman said to the Independent.

He referred to the Portia spider, which bluffs by waiting on another vibration such as the wind to disguise their own. They also mimic other species' vibrations, which means their meal would sometimes think they've discovered a mate rather than their killer.

Feldman who has spent some 25 years studying the science of deception , said liars have an advantage because people don't expect to be lied to. Also people are often told what they want to hear, such as they are doing a good job.