Cognitive dissonance is the mental discomfort caused by holding two conflicting beliefs or values. We might rush into buying a house although we believe prices will fall but the fear of missing out is even worse. We don't like the pain inflicted by gambling but we invest in casinos. We believe sugar is detrimental to health but we work for a soft drink maker. A short-term share trade makes a loss and becomes a long-term investment. How about budget restraint amid massive fiscal spending?