Is it ok to lie if someone asks if their hair looks good?

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That’s a good answer because it recognises that it might be of importance to them (the change in hairstyle).
 
That’s how I see it too.
What’s the harm in lying this way if the compliment makes them feel good?
I would never lie to someone who was asking my honest opinion because I want them to be able to trust that I will be honest with them,but I mean for people that are really seeking a compliment and not an opinion.
 
Rozellelily said:
Now I’m curious…what is space opera?😀
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A subset of science fiction.

Generally, the protagonist’s action will have consequences the affect society. There tend to be space battles, and tech isn’t supreme over individuals. Much of Star Trek (and to a lesser extent the spinoffs) and the pre-Disney Star Wars are examples. To some extent they’re westerns in space (and the term itself is a play on “western opera”, from the old shorts/series that played before the main feature). It tends to overlap heavily with Military SF; many works are both.

Also my favorite pleasure reading . . .

hawk
 
But there is no malice or ill intent in trying to not hurt someone’s feelings over something inconsequential (like a hairstyle). No injury is caused (wheras telling the truth could be quite hurtful)
 
What’s really bothersome as well, is when they ask you if you would wear the same outfit. Usually not, and i’d tell them that!
 
there’s answers though that really don’t work, because people know your answer right away: 1. I love the color; 2. It’s what you think that matters not my opinion;3. You know people are wearing those kinds of hats these days. It’s really hard to be put “on-the spot”. In trying not to lie, it could take about 5 painful minutes to come up with something!
 
Some of the factors I consider:
  • What benefit is there in affirming the person, supporting his or her decisions?
  • Is it a problem that can fixed? “Check that extension, it seems out of place.”
  • Is hair the problem or is it the person’s inability to think correctly and make good decisions?
  • What is my relationship to the person? Do I have a position where I must guide or counsel the person?
  • Will the person attend a function as a representative of a group?
  • Is the person seeking assurance or a style assessment?
  • Can the person accept advice or a suggestion?
  • Will I have another opportunity to talk with the person about hair?
  • How many times has this person worn this style before?
  • Might the person have received advice (You need to change styles) and is exploring in their mind if there’s something wrong with the style?
  • Should I give assurance, but caution about what others might say?
  • Where will the person be seen with that hair? A party with peers or job interview?
  • How old is the person and how mature?
  • What is the person really asking me? There may be many shades to the question.
Depending on the situation and an evaluation of all the factors I would not hesitate to lie lie lie.
 
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There is always something you can say that isn’t a lie.
“That color makes such a difference”
“It’s nice to have a change “
Etc.
 
Noone has mentioned hysterical laughter as a potential response . . .

🤣

hawk
 
I’m glad no ones ever asked me that.
In this instance I would just tell them the truth that it’s not my style because it seems like they already have doubts and want to know how the outfit is perceived by outsiders and genuinely get an opinion.
At the same time I would also tell them it’s what you like that matters and what makes you feel good,who cares about following fashions.
 
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Thanks for the explanation.

Hmm…I guess Red Dwarf wouldn’t count then?
That’s probably as sci-fi as I get😀
 
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I’e never seen Red Dwarf.

If the characters are powerless to change society (which may well be changing about them as part of the story), it may well be god SF, but it’s not space opera.

The best modern example might be David Drake’s “With the Lightnings”/“Lt. Leary” series. The RCN navy is from a society that is a mix of republican rome and 19th century britain/royal navy, and Daniel Leary pretty much saves his civilization every book.

The Falkenberg’s Legion series of books (and the entire Future History it is set in) by Jerry Pournelle (which Stephanie recently gave up!) is another excellent example, mixed with heavy dystopianism (mmmm . . .) with hope to end the dystopia (to e clear, Pournelle is my favorite, but Drake’s series is clearer Spae Opera).

And let’s not forget David Weber’s 'Honor Harrington" books. Drake’s are more adventure/derring-do, while Weber’s are more duty and grit. Both lay fair claim to Horatio Hornblower in space.

hawk
 
Red Dwarf is along the lines of Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. Not Space Opera, but fun.
 
Sweet heavens, some of you have complex friendships. If you are going through this many points before you determine how to answer a question about something as cosmetic as hair, this is likely not a friendship but some sort of emotional minefield.

I’m someone who wears very crazy hairstyles, colors, etc. I OFTEN get strange looks and comments and I smile about them.

Unless someone held your friend down or drugged them and did their hair against their will, or they are 7 years old, just give an answer!

CCC 1753

"A good intention (for example, that of helping one’s neighbor) does not make behavior that is intrinsically disordered, such as lying and calumny, good or just.”

CCC 2485

“By its very nature lying is to be condemned.”

2488

“The right to the communication of the truth is not unconditional”
 
I wanted to ask what “woggy” means because Google didn’t help much with it.
Now that I see what it means, dunno if you are right in your fashion comment of her style. Some of the most famous blondes were actually fake blondes. Maybe she dyed her hair following some expert advice.
Lighter color brings attention to the eyes and darker colors to the features - so I was told. So someone with sharp features is more likely to be advised to become a blonde to “soften” the overall appearance.
I say only be honest if you are very close to that girl. Like if she is your bff and you lie to her that is not ok not just by biblical standards. But definitely do it in private and do not say “woggy”. Say something nice like “it looks like your face is being washed out by this color. Your natural hair is gorgeous, I wouldn’t have changed if I were you.”
 
I just realized I have very relaxed friends. When comparing new dresses in the fitting room, an usual talk would be like:
“well? are you ready?”
(laughing) “yes, you have to see this, I´m looking like I had +20 pounds on my belly”
“Oh yes darling, but the problem is the colour, it´s rather…shrimp-ish, your complexion looks fishy” 😃 😃
 
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