ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Truth serum

So you know how sometimes you don't tell the truth when someone asks you a question? Maybe you're scared, or you don't want to get in trouble. Well, grown-ups have come up with something called a "truth serum" that they use to try and get people to tell the truth.

It's not really a serum like the kind you get when you're sick. It's actually a kind of medicine called a "barbiturate" that can make you feel really relaxed and sleepy. When you're relaxed like that, it's easier for you to say what's on your mind without worrying about getting in trouble or hurting someone's feelings. But just because you're relaxed doesn't mean that the things you say are always true!

It's important to remember that using a truth serum isn't always a good idea, because it can be dangerous and people can still lie while under its effects. And even though we want to be truthful, it's also important to remember that everyone has the right to keep some things private, especially if it's something personal or could hurt someone else.