What is a good example of a paradox?

[Dave B]

Hmm, the Oxford dictionary offers:

Unless "intentional" is the only thing that is different, missing, then your statement seems to vie with the above.

Well, 'intentional' is the operative word.  An unintentionally false statement is normally called 'a mistake'.  For example, if I say, 'The population of Auckland is two million' when it is actually one and a half million, I haven't told a lie as long as I believe the population to be two million.

All lies are false statements, not all false statements are lies.

Boru

Very true, Boru, I deliberately did not expand it.

In 'normal' bebate one makes a statement and then at least supports, qualifies or proves it. Not to do so invites challenge if the statement is incorrect or incomplete. Had Hammy said something like, "... because the definition of a lie is not "a false statement" unless the qualification 'intentional' is included ..." (my bold addition) I would have happily agreed. In omitting that  he left a bald statement that is only correct as stated, not in all cases. One which should be challenged.

It's actually a good ploy if you know, for sure, that your opponent's ripost will contain material that digs him or her deeper into their own hole - something that you can definitely prove to be false or contradictable in a concrete manner. You appologise for your omission or error then turn the opponent's ripost against them.Often used against dogmatic reliogionistas and in courts of law.

But, needs careful use, it can backfire!