Principled Petty
When someone acts like they're doing something out of a principle or high-minded belief, but it's really just a rationalization for being petty. Usually the excuse will involve a concept like rights, laws, economics, or justice. The term is frequently used on Am I The Asshole Podcast.
"I don't tip. Why should consumers pay for a business' labor costs?"
"You sure you're not just a principled petty a-hole?"
"Mike said he didn't invite Jenny to his party because it's his right."
"He's just being principled petty - obviously this is about Jenny calling him out for stealing $20."
"You sure you're not just a principled petty a-hole?"
"Mike said he didn't invite Jenny to his party because it's his right."
"He's just being principled petty - obviously this is about Jenny calling him out for stealing $20."