Why are people attracted to the low road?
The low road is known as the path of least resistance. Human beings tend to follow the path of least resistance because it is easier and often safer. While it may not be the most ethical path to take, we are naturally drawn to it when we are tired or stressed. When the high road is the more difficult path we consider using the low road, and unfortunately, we easily rationalize the reason for taking it.
The most common reasons that we self-rationalize taking the unethical low road, in no particular order of importance:
Money, greed, incentives, sex, recognition, acceptance, power, laziness, respect, favoritism, or fatigue;
or to avoid pain, ostracism, frustration, or pressure.