👉 "Guilty math" refers to a psychological phenomenon where individuals rationalize their unethical or morally questionable actions by adjusting their perception of the harm caused, often through a distorted calculation that minimizes or justifies the negative impact. This cognitive bias allows people to maintain a positive self-image by convincing themselves that their actions were justified or less harmful than they actually are. For example, someone might justify lying by telling themselves, "It was only a small lie, and it won't hurt anyone," thereby downplaying the deceit's severity and the potential distress it may cause. This mental gymnastics helps individuals avoid feelings of guilt and maintain a sense of moral integrity, even when their behavior is clearly unethical.
