Easier? Probably. Better? Arguable.
In my experience, most people are generally honest and ethical. It also turns out that it is psychologically easier to behave ethically (or unethically) if you believe that most of those around you are honest (or dishonest). So, there are also some externalities. Dan Ariely at Duke has stuidied this extensively---and, potentially, experienced it personally, depending on whom you believe. This is a good introduction to his work. It's an easy read, and I enjoyed it.
https://www.amazon.com/Honest-Truth-About-Dishonesty-Everyone-Especially-ebook/dp/B00CD36FF6/