The American Dictionary of the English Language by Noah Webster, 1828 Edition, defines "ingenuous" as "open, frank, fair, candid, and free from reserve, disguise, equivocation or dissimulation." "Disingenuous" is the opposite.
In today's politics and news reporting, the word "spin" has become synonymous with the word "disingenuous," at least in reference to spoken and written words. Questions asked are rarely answered with direct answers. Answers are designed to be non-answers and to direct listener's attention to a person's position, belief or dogma. We may hear partial truths or outright lies designed to cover the truth. Leaders may be saying one thing while their staff persons are doing the opposite. This is "spin" and it is "disingenuous!"
A passage of Scripture in Matthew 5:33-37 concludes with this: "But let your 'Yes" be 'Yes,' and your 'No, 'No.' For whatever is more than these is from the evil one." "Spin" has become normal for today's communications and, because prominent people do it, much of society accepts it as permissible. Here's the truth. "Spin," or "disingenuous" words, are LIES! Deceitful, dishonest or criminal are progressive adjectives describing the "spin" that cloaks private agendas of politicians, political parties and others in our society today.
I'm ashamed to admit that, occasionally, I have fallen prey to this societal norm. How about you?
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