This is a Lexicon entry: the mechanism, when it shows up, and the countermeasure. The full correction, with real-world cases and the audit prompt, hasn't been written yet.
Definition
Doing something virtuous gives people implicit permission to behave badly afterward - as if virtue credits can be spent. People who recycle are more likely to cheat in unrelated tasks.
When it shows up
After a public good deed: donation, volunteering, supportive statement, voting for moral policy. In the hours to days that follow.
Failure mode
The good act creates a felt moral surplus that permits subsequent lapses. 'I did my part earlier' licenses behaviour that would have been resisted without the prior good. The moral ledger balances lower than without either act.
Countermeasure
Treat moral behaviour as what ethical agents do, not as credit. A good deed doesn't purchase permission for a bad one. Notice the self-congratulatory state after good acts; it is the window when licensing happens.
Related concepts
Also connected in the mapCognitive Dissonance·Commitment Bias·Moral Grandstanding·Noble Cause Corruption·The Benjamin Franklin Effect·The Noble Edge Effect·Equality Shadow Boxing·Toxic Compassion·Special Pleading
Origin
Also revealed
Entry #101 of 631 in The Lexicon · see the full Lexicon