The Fudge Factor: How We Trick Ourselves Into Being 'Good' Cheaters

Why do smart, well-meaning people cheat? The answer, according to Dan Ariely, lies in the 'fudge factor'—the mental gymnastics we perform to justify small acts of dishonesty without feeling like bad people. This blog takes you inside the mind of the everyday cheater, revealing how subtle rationalizations make it easy to bend the rules and still sleep soundly at night.

From inflating hours on a timesheet to 'borrowing' office supplies, most acts of dishonesty are small, habitual, and rationalized. We tell ourselves stories: 'Everyone does it,' 'It’s just a little,' 'I deserve it.' Each rationalization widens our fudge factor, making bigger cheats easier down the road.

But the fudge factor isn’t destiny. Ariely’s research shows that moral reminders, self-reflection, and clear rules can shrink the fudge factor and restore integrity. Journaling about daily decisions, setting personal pledges, and creating environments with fewer ambiguities all help. Even admitting a slip, rather than hiding it, can break the cycle of rationalization and start a new story of honesty.

Ultimately, the fudge factor is a reminder that we’re all works in progress. By catching ourselves in the act of self-justification, we can choose honesty—again and again—and inspire those around us to do the same.