Lance Armstrong says that he looked up the meaning of the word "cheat" in the dictionary when he was using performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). The dictionary defined cheating as "using an unfair advantage in a competition." Mr. Armstrong believed that PEDs were used by his competitors and felt it was ethical to continue using them. Which rationalization did Mr. Armstrong use?
A) It's a gray area.
B) It could be worse.
C) Everyone does it.
D) I deserve this.

Question

Lance Armstrong says that he looked up the meaning of the word "cheat" in the dictionary when he was using performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). The dictionary defined cheating as "using an unfair advantage in a competition."   Mr. Armstrong believed that PEDs were used by his competitors and felt it was ethical to continue using them. Which rationalization did Mr. Armstrong use?
A) It's a gray area.
B) It could be worse.
C) Everyone does it.
D) I deserve this.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mr. Armstrong used the rationalization "everyone does it." He believed that other athletes were also using PEDs, so he felt justified in using them as well.

Lance Armstrong Says That He Looked Up the Meaning of the Word