“Policy of Truth” is a song by Depeche Mode, released in May 1990 with “Kaleid” on the B-side as the third single from their highly acclaimed album Violator. Written by the band’s primary songwriter Martin Gore, the song was a significant commercial success, peaking at No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100, and reaching No.1 on Billboard Alternative Airplay and Dance Singles Sales charts in the U.S. Known for its sleek, synth-driven sound and darker lyrical themes, “Policy of Truth” solidified the band’s position as pioneers of synth-pop and alternative rock.
The song’s central theme revolves around the notion that one’s past decisions—whether truthful or dishonest—can have long-lasting effects, and that sometimes, keeping certain truths hidden may prevent harm. It’s a nuanced take on the complexities of relationships, trust, and the potential fallout from being too candid. This darker, introspective subject matter aligns with the more mature and reflective direction the band took during the Violator era.
Musically, “Policy of Truth” is a quintessential Depeche Mode track, combining synth-pop with elements of alternative rock. The song features a driving rhythm, atmospheric synths, and a strong, danceable beat that gives it an infectious groove. It’s characterized by a clean, polished production that highlights both electronic textures and more traditional rock elements, like Alan Wilder’s layered arrangements and Dave Gahan’s deep, brooding vocals.
The song also stands out for its melodic guitar riff, which contrasts with the electronic beats and adds a darker, edgier feel. This mix of synthetic and organic elements was a hallmark of the Violator album and helped elevate Depeche Mode’s sound to a broader audience.
“Policy of Truth” was a commercial hit for Depeche Mode, particularly in the U.S., where it reached No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100—the third single from Violator to chart in the top 20, following “Personal Jesus” and “Enjoy the Silence.” In the UK, the song reached No. 16 on the charts, further cementing the album’s success. The song also performed well across Europe and other international markets, becoming a fan favorite and frequently played on alternative radio stations.
Its strong commercial performance and crossover appeal contributed to the overall success of Violator, which remains one of Depeche Mode’s most celebrated albums.
The music video for “Policy of Truth,” directed by Anton Corbijn, who has been a long-time visual collaborator with Depeche Mode, is stylistically dark and moody, matching the song’s lyrical themes. The video features fragmented, almost surreal images and sequences that emphasize deception, consequences, and regret. Corbijn’s visual storytelling perfectly complements the song’s message, adding layers of meaning and depth.
The combination of the song’s atmospheric sound and Corbijn’s visual direction further reinforced Depeche Mode’s distinctive aesthetic during this period, which was characterized by a mix of cool, minimalistic style and emotional intensity.
“Policy of Truth” is widely regarded as one of Depeche Mode’s standout tracks from Violator and a fan favorite in their live performances. Its timeless sound, blending synth-pop, rock, and dance influences, helped the band reach new heights of popularity in the early 1990s and attracted a more mainstream audience without sacrificing their dark, introspective style.