Why Billionaires Should Not Be In Power
I recently saw this question posed on a Linkedin post.
“Who better to lead the country than billionaires who have a proven ability to manage money?”
The answer to this MAGA post called for more than a quick reply on my cell phone.
Why billionaires may not be suitable government leaders?
Are all billionaires bad or selfish? Of course not. But, billionaires often exhibit one or more of the following personality disorders—together known as the Dark Triad.
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While it can be caused by environmental factors, it is also highly heritable. Think Donald and Fred Trump, in which both scenarios are at play.
The traits associated with Machiavellianism are:
Will lie, manipulate and exploit others.
Consider their own goals over the needs of others.
Lack empathy.
Unchecked desire for money, fame, status, and/or power.
Need constant affirmation.
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Scientists are still working to fully understand psychopathy, but believe it can be defined as including the following traits:
Poor impulse control.
Lack of empathy.
Meanness or boldness.
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Dr. Zach Rosenthal, a clinical psychologist at Duke Health, uses the acronym SPECIALME to sum up the traits of narcissistic personality disorder.
“S - Sense of self-importance
P - Preoccupation with power, beauty, or success
E - Entitled
C - Can only be around people who are important or special
I - Interpersonally exploitative for their own gain
A - Arrogant
L - Lack empathy
M - Must be admired
E - Envious of others or believe that others are envious of them”
Do you really want anyone at the helm that has even one of these disorders?
They promise all your dreams will come true under their leadership, but remember that manipulation is an easily flourished sword for those of the Dark Triad. Their interest lie with their selves, and they lack the empathy to care for the needs of others. We see the Dark Triad at play in today’s Federal and State administrations.
Trump, members of his cabinet, his tight-knit circle of associates, and many members of Congress display all three disorders to varying degrees. And, what of those that voted for this administration? The answer is rather black and white. They either possess these traits or are victims of manipulation.
The man with his hand on the button shows an absence of empathy and near zero impulse control, and those that surround him suffer the same disorders or are too terrified to act.
Back to the question. Who better to rule than billionaires?
Almost anyone!
Article Resources
A Broader View of Psychopathy, By Tori DeAngelis, March 1, 2022, Vol. 53 No. 2
Why narcissists may be successful entrepreneurs: The role of entrepreneurial social identity and overwork., by Andrea S. Gubik and Zsófia Vörös, Dec 13, 2022
Psychology’s “Dark Triad” and the Billionaire Class, Reviewed by Kaja Perina, October 25, 2019.
9 Signs of Narcissistic Personality Disorder, By Larissa Biggers, December 15, 2022