Document Type
Article
Publication Title
New York Dispute Resolution Lawyer
Publication Date
2014
Volume
7(1)
First Page
13
Abstract
(Excerpt)
In the context of negotiations, how does “cheater’s high” influence our ethical behavior, decision-making and negotiation strategy? “Cheater’s high” is the term coined by behavioral ethics researchers to describe the positive feeling we experience when we cheat. Rather than feel guilty for these ethical transgressions as was previously believed, those who cheat actually experience a positive effect that further incentivizes the unethical behavior to continue. Even though some who are perched on their ivory tower may feel immune from “cheater’s high,” social scientists remind us that at times we all cheat to varying degrees. This cheating reality is problematic for us all, because it collides with a lawyer’s ethical obligation to be truthful.
Comments
Reprinted with permission from the New York State Bar Association.