That depends on your definition of flattery. I will regularly compliment people just to give them a lift. For example, if I see someone with a frown on their face, I will say something to try to get them to at least half-smile, and then tell them their face takes on a glow when they smile. And I think that is true of everyone's face. Or, "That color looks really good on you" or something similar. But empty flattery? Include me out. "Empty flattery is a close cousin to a lie." -- BKW
Another one of my old "Chungue in teak" sayings, been using it for years.
Flattery will not get you anywhere with no one, but blandishments will get you everywhere with anyone. -- BKW
What does my religion say? To a very real extent, my religion is what I do, not what I may call myself. But that said, my religion says to, "Say unto others words kinder than what you would like said to yourself." --B. Knott Wildered (not my real name, but the quotes are mine.)