Lying is one of the qualities that separates humans from animals. Lying can come in a variety of forms. It can be simply getting things to go your way through deception; to conceal the truth from others; and to get someone to be more attracted to you through lies. The question that must be asked is is all lying bad?
In most cases, we can say that by not telling the truth or modifying facts can be considered morally bad. Our consciences normally say that it was bad to tell a lie normally since further lies may have to be told to cover your tracks. The degree of severity of the lie is a factor. Cheating on a partner and lying about it is worse than saying you went to the dentist when you did not! But, there are certain circumstances where I believe it is justified to withhold the truth.
For example, telling young children that Santa Claus exists to provide them presents at Christmas time is an obvious lie, since Santa Claus does not exist, and the parents provide the presents. The magic lies in telling them about this amazing man who everyone loves and provides presents for children every year. The naivety of children makes a better scenario than our parents giving us gifts.
Lying could also be justified if it involves protecting yourself or others from serious harm. However, if it did involve breaking the law I would personally have to admit to the problem, even if it did mean serious consequences i.e. going to prison after committing an offence. Lying would only exacerbate the situation and make it worse.
Lying is a defence mechanism, as described by Lister in Red Dwarf, but it is only justified in limited circumstances. Lying can be bad, and I do not like to lie, and when I do, it is not often. There are certain times I have lied in the past to get out of minor trouble but, I don't think I have ever had to lie to cover a major fault. I am a very honest person and as the famous quote goes "Honesty is the best policy..."
Here is a link to an interesting article on the current war in Iraq and should George W. Bush be impeached for the reasons for going to war in 2003:
http://www.cnn.com/2003/LAW/06/06/findlaw.analysis.dean.wmd/
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