The Biology of Hypocrisy

More about The Biology of Hypocrisy

Physiological and Psychological Reasons for "Double Standards":

1. Cognitive Dissonance (Brain Conflict)

The brain dislikes holding two conflicting beliefs at once. When someone says one thing but does another, it creates internal stress (dissonance), and they may justify it or ignore the conflict instead of fixing it.

Example: Someone might believe lying is wrong, but lie to protect themselves — their brain creates a justification to reduce the discomfort.


2. Hormones and Stress

Under stress or fear, the brain switches to "survival mode", using the amygdala. This can cause people to act selfishly or irrationally.

Example: Someone who usually supports fairness might act unfairly if they're panicking about their own safety or reputation.


3. Self-Preservation Instinct

The human body has a built-in survival instinct, deeply rooted in physiology.

This instinct can override moral or social standards, especially in competitive, threatening, or emotionally intense situations.


4. Social and Evolutionary Behavior

Humans evolved in tribes. It was often beneficial to protect your group and distrust outsiders, even if it meant being unfair — this is still reflected in "in-group vs out-group" bias.

This can make someone act one way with friends, and another with strangers.


5. Brain’s Reward System

The dopamine system reinforces behaviors that feel good or bring rewards — even if they go against values.

If someone gets attention, money, or power from acting differently in different situations, the brain encourages it.

People may appear to have "double standards" because their brain and body are responding to internal conflicts, emotional states, social pressures, or survival instincts — even if they don’t realize it consciously.

Concept art By - Rojitha Yasaswin