I thought this post was funny and a good first-principles exploration of the cultural weirdness that is Systematically Lying to Kids About Santa Claus.

I do think it misses the point though (as it should) that to believe in Santa Claus despite apparent evidence to the contrary, to believe for the sake of believing, can be seen as a metaphor for choosing to see a world of wonder, despite abounding cynicism and all rationalism telling you that the world is unmagical.

In that sense, Santa Claus truly exists for the adults. It gives them an opportunity to rediscover the childlike wonder that they have lost over time. The preservation of the Christmas tradition serves as a final affirmation of the rightness and goodness inherent in seeing the world with wonder. Santa Claus is an egregore reminding adults not to take life so seriously. We lie to our kids about Santa Claus for selfish reasons.