“People higher up on the socioeconomic ladder are about three times more likely to cheat than people on the lower rungs,” research also suggests that people who yearn to be richer or more prominent make different choices than those more content with their present level of material comfort. No matter how much money you actually have, you’re likelier to behave unethically if you check the “agree” box next to the following statement: “In order to be a successful person in this society, it is important to make use of every opportunity.”
Paul Piff: Does Money Make You Mean? TED Radio Hour