Rationalization of the desirable to be good is almost universal. Understanding what is the cause and what is the effect is important. Acceptance of the reality improves the ability to get desirable results from chosen actions. This one is no exception. Arguing from moral standpoint rarely works. And when it does, it usually due to eventual correlation with the actual cause - some benefits.
If your ethics will make other people better of, then this is what you have to make them understand. If your ethics will harm other people, then either admit that they are hostile to your views or trick them into believing in the opposite.
Handle what there is, don't fool yourself.