We are a supposedly smart bunch of people. We know what is right and what is wrong.
Just because we can get away with it, isn't a excuse to do so.
Indeed, a lack of proper regulation and enforcement is NOT an excuse for bad practices.
Responsible operators and professional pilots adhere to best practice regardless of who is watching.
The problem is the cowboy operators who thrive where there is a fast buck to be made where the law is not watching.