Video Activity - How to spot a liar

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Pamela Meyers: How to spot a liar

Before you listen:
What are some synonyms for lie or lying?
What is a white lie?
Can you think of instances when lying is ok?
Have you ever lied to anyone? When and why?
Listen to the talk without subtitles or a transcript and take notes. From your memory and your notes, what is Pamela Meyer's main idea with this talk? Listen again with subtitles or a transcrıpt (found below the video). Answer the following questions.
Questions
1. What is the speaker’s “core proposition”, or first truth about lying?
2. How many times a day may we be lied to, according to studies?
3. What is Pamela Meyer’s second truth about lying?
4. How did Koko the gorilla lie?
5. What is the first “pattern of deception” illustrated in the talk?
6. What is the second “pattern of deception”?
7. The speaker talks about “leaked” expressions. What simple expression does the speaker use to illustrate this point?
Writing:
In one paragraph, summarize the main points and important details of the talk from your notes. In the next paragraph, write a reaction to the information presented in the talk.
Some ideas: Do you consider yourself as a liar as described by the speaker? Is it human nature to lie? In what way is this subject important in your daily life? Do you agree with the suggestions of the author? Is it important to be a “lie spotter”?Discuss the idea of “lying as a collaborative act”.