Why Are the Bad Guys in This World Better Off?

Research shows that people who act unethically might seem to succeed more often, maybe because they’re good at manipulating situations and chasing quick wins. But this isn’t always the case—over time, their actions often catch up with them.
The media loves to highlight stories of unethical people succeeding because these tales are more dramatic. Meanwhile, the successes of honest folks tend to get less attention, which can skew our perception and make it seem like bad behavior pays off more.
There’s evidence suggesting that people from higher social classes might be more likely to act unethically, but this idea is still debated. It’s important not to jump to conclusions about it.
Our brains also have biases that can make us feel like morality is on the decline, reinforcing the idea that “bad guys finish first.” But in reality, things are much more complicated than that.

Ever noticed how some people who bend the rules—or break them entirely—seem to thrive? The ruthless boss who climbs the corporate ladder, the manipulative friend who always lands on their feet—it’s a frustrating pattern. But are the “bad guys” really better off?

In this article, we’ll dig into the psychology behind this perception, explore its impact on mental and physical health, and unpack why society sometimes seems to reward unethical behavior. Spoiler: the truth is more complicated than it looks.

Table of Contents

The Psychology of “Bad Guys” and Success

Why do some less-than-honest folks seem to get ahead? Part of it comes down to personality traits psychologists call the dark triad: narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy. These traits—marked by self-obsession, cunning, and a lack of empathy—can give people an edge in cutthroat settings. For example, a study found that narcissists are often promoted to leadership roles¹ because their confidence and charm impress others, even if they step on toes to get there.

But there’s a flip side. These “bad guys” might win short-term victories, but their inner world can be chaotic. Constantly maintaining a facade—pretending to be someone they’re not—amps up stress and anxiety. Another quirk of the mind, called moral licensing², also plays a role. Ever met someone who justifies a shady move because they “did something good” earlier? Like skipping a tax payment after volunteering? This cycle of good-to-bad behavior muddies their moral compass and keeps the stress simmering.

Also read: What is the Best Way to Live a Happy Life?

The Hidden Health Cost of Being “Bad”

Sure, unethical behavior might snag a promotion or a quick buck, but it’s not all smooth sailing. Living a double life—smiling to someone’s face while scheming behind their back—takes a toll. The American Psychological Association warns that chronic stress, like the kind that comes from dodging consequences or fearing exposure, can lead to serious health problems³: think heart disease, diabetes, or a weaker immune system. A study even tied unethical behavior to sleep issues⁴, which snowballs into exhaustion and burnout.

On the flip side, what about the “good guys” who play by the rules? Material suggests they might suffer, too—not from deceit, but from suppression. People who always put on a perfect front, like the kid praised for being “obedient” or the employee who never speaks up, can bottle up emotions. Over time, this pressure cooker of unexpressed feelings might raise their risk for depression or even cancer, as some research hints that chronic emotional repression could harm the body⁵.

A middle-aged man in a suit with sharp eyes and a sly smile on the corner of his mouth.

Why Society Seems to Cheer for the “Bad Guys”

It’s not just in our heads—society often fuels this perception. Think of movie villains like Gordon Gekko from Wall Street, whose “greed is good” mantra makes unethical moves look glamorous. Media loves a juicy scandal, too. A study on corporate scandals found that unethical stories grab way more attention than tales of quiet integrity, skewing our view of who’s “winning.”

Then there’s the power game. A Harvard Business Review report showed that people in high positions can get away with more because their authority shields them. Your friend’s shady boss? Outside his inner circle, no one cares about his reputation—only what he can offer. As you pointed out, social interactions often boil down to a trade: “What can you do for me?” If a “bad guy” delivers—through influence, fear, or favors—people overlook the rest.

The Real Picture: Short-Term Wins, Long-Term Losses

Here’s where it gets tricky. The “bad guys” might shine briefly, but cracks often show. A report on unethical business practices highlights how cutting corners can tank companies with lawsuits, distrust, or collapse. On a personal level, the stress of keeping up the act can erode mental and physical health, as we’ve seen.

Meanwhile, the “good guys” who stick to their values might not flash wealth or power right away, but they often build something steadier. A Gallup study found that honest employees report less stress and more job satisfaction.

“bad guys” might flow with energy, living authentically (if selfishly), while “good guys” who suppress themselves can stagnate, drained by inner conflict.

Also read: Feeling Bored at Work? Here’s What to Do

How to Thrive Without Turning “Bad”

Feeling stuck watching the “bad guys” win? You don’t have to join them. Here’s how to stay true to yourself and still get ahead:

Lean on real connections: Surround yourself with people who value honesty. A solid crew can keep you grounded when shortcuts tempt you.
Draw your line: Know your limits—what you’ll do and what you won’t. Clear boundaries cut down on stress and guilt.
Play the long game: Success built on integrity might take time, but it’s less likely to crumble. Think marathon, not sprint.

Your material nails it: the “bad guy” who squeezes those close to him but charms outsiders isn’t invincible. His small circle might resent him, while a “good guy” who’s genuine can quietly win loyalty that lasts.

The Bottom Line

So, are the “bad guys” really better off? Not quite. They might grab quick wins, but the stress, health risks, and shaky foundations catch up. Meanwhile, living authentically—without faking it for applause—can spare your mind and body while paving a slower, surer path to success. The “real person” has energy; the “fake person” wastes it on pretending. The choice isn’t good or bad—it’s about what keeps you whole. What’s your move?