573. When You Don't Know

Whenever you don't know something, simply say "I don't know." This is much better than trying to cloak the fact (that you don't know) with ambiguous words, generalities and vague undefinable terms. Do not set up smoke screens. If you know, say so; if you don't, admit it immediately. The reply "I don't know." is much more tolerable and acceptable than the attempts to maintain your false position as an authority on the subject. Candid honesty is more beautiful than deceitful duplicity.

It is very flattering to the ego to have your opinion sought and to be consulted on all manner of subjects and it is very gratifying to be able to give wise and correct answers and become known as a wise man but you must never allow this to seduce you into pretending to know those things that you do not. This is one of the great dangers of the study of Philosophy and a trap for the mind which you should avoid. Like every situation, if you look you will find an upside. In the case where you are asked something you can't answer, you should see this as an opportunity to learn. Go and find out the answers to these questions.

401. Flattery vs Sincere Praise

Beware of flatterers for they will turn on you when it suits them. Learn to recognise sincere praise and distinguish it from the words others think you want to hear. To help you in this, cultivate a taste for bald truth. Prefer it to euphemism. You may have to use diplomacy yourself but always try to see through the diplomacy of others. Always prefer to hear the truth, however unpleasant it may be, than to hear a pleasant lie. For that reason, always encourage those around you to speak the truth pleasantly and discourage pleasant untruths. 

Study the situations of others; see where their interests lie. Then you will be able to judge the truth of what they say for they will always speak for their own interests. (By interests here we mean those things that are of advantage to them, not their hobbies).

272. Negotiating with Strangers and Enemies.

When negotiating with strangers or enemies, work at quickly turning them into friends. This makes negotiation easier. Get to know them. Find out their likes and dislikes. Ask to borrow a certain one of their books. (This will flatter them.) but make sure to read it before you return it (in case you are questioned on it later.) And make sure you do return it !