You are assuming it is a conscious decision and that these high-status individuals are aware that what they express is false. But the point the author makes is

You are assuming it is a conscious decision and that these high-status individuals are aware that what they express is false. But the point the author makes is that the falsehoods are their true opinion. And most likely, you yourself will have opinions that aren't true and that you have only started to believe because of fear of status loss.