Narcissism

 What is Narcissism?

I started researching this subject when I began work on the novel The God Particles. Narcissism is a personality style characterized by an excessive focus on oneself and one's own needs, often at the expense of others. The term, rooted in Greek mythology, has evolved into a psychological concept that has been extensively studied since the early 20th century, emphasizing its significance across various areas of society. That’s Wikipedia for you.

The term narcissism is widely discussed in internet literature, but often in one dimension. I believe that every human being has some degree of narcissism. However, outside of this article, you may encounter the notion that narcissistic behaviours are inherently negative, representing a high level of selfishness. This is where I begin to disagree. While I do not dismiss the literature influenced by Western perspectives, I would like to propose a new approach to defining this complex concept. Every word has a story, and "narcissism" is no exception. The essence of narcissism begins with the simple act of enjoying one’s beauty—looking in the mirror and appreciating one’s appearance. If we take a narrow, literal interpretation of this conduct, it can indeed be seen as a selfish trait. However, a certain level of self-appreciation is necessary for developing self-esteem.

Now, let me address a deeper level of this concept that most people overlook. If you can appreciate your beauty—whether inner or outer—you also become capable of appreciating others. Here, I want to expand the definition of narcissism to embrace a more positive perspective. When you look into the mirror and take pleasure in what you see, it enables you to recognize and empathize with the feelings of others. In short, one becomes more sensitive to those around you because you see their reflections in your own experience.

To clarify my point, I propose two new terms:

·      Negative narcissism and

·      Positive narcissism.

A negative narcissist only sees one face. That's their face. In contrast, a positive narcissist sees all the faces behind them.

Cases studies - Actors

Successful actors at the top tier never insult their counterparts. I am not saying they never make mistakes when discussing others. The top-tier actors generally do not seek to tarnish the image of their competition. Because it affects them. There may be exceptions, but predominantly lead actors refrain from doing so. This behaviour stems from a sense of positive narcissism and a "birds of a feather" mentality. They recognize the challenges in their careers and view their colleagues as collaborators rather than threats. When certain actors personally attack others, it is usually those who are less successful than others. They often lack an understanding of what it takes to reach or maintain a position in the top tier despite being extremely talented. Their attacks on others' images would be due to a deficiency in self-confidence. True leaders in the film industry do not engage in such behaviour. Another aspect of this issue is the phenomenon of passionate fans attacking rival actors. It often results from blind adoration developed during their teenage or young adult years towards specific actors, actresses, writers, or directors. Such fervent fans can create difficulties for those they view as opponents. While fans typically admire every work of the actors they love in television or cinema, some lead actors do not oppose this behaviour, as it contributes to their success. That attitude puts them in a dilemma, as they are constantly aware of their competitors.

Case study - Politicians

Criticism is an inherent part of a politician's public life. Politicians can embody either negative or positive forms of narcissism upholding their ideologies. Negative narcissists exclude most of their opponents from constructive discussions, often fixating solely on their image. Interestingly, this behaviour has value in politics; the rationale is that it helps avoid constant conflicts with opponents.  It makes sense in the case of politics.

 

On the other hand, positive narcissism can lead to selfless efforts with little tangible outcome, resembling sacrifice. Only a few political leaders operate without ambitions for power, even when granted authority. These positive narcissists are loved by their followers for their selflessness, but eventually, there may be pressure for them to shift away from constant sacrifice.

 

Balancing personal ideals with the aggressive nature of politics, which involves power dynamics and social responsibility, can be challenging. When it comes to criticism, some leaders may damage the reputations of their opponents, while others work to enhance their image through their actions. Very few ethical leaders criticize solely from a political standpoint; many tend to mix political critiques with personal attacks, especially as elections approach.

Case study – Teachers

I began by discussing actors and politicians to illustrate various traits related to this subject, and there is a significant reason for that choice. These professions require a strong public image compared to most other jobs. Similar to those in media roles, teachers—whether in schools or colleges—also have a public persona that influences how they are perceived. This collective image is shaped by societal expectations. Different cultures may have varied expectations of teachers; in some cultures, people expect teachers to embody specific qualities. This nature can create positive yet narcissistic expectations from the public. Regardless of a teacher’s actual effectiveness, whether exceptionally good or poor, there is an inherent expectation of how teachers should present themselves. This expectation can be viewed as both a constraint and a strength of the profession. Teachers find themselves confined within the boundaries of their defined roles, enjoying the freedom to express themselves only within that framework. However, if they step outside of this established image, they may encounter significant backlash. I would pamper that situation with a political phrase, conflict of interests.

Other Areas

In any professional field, there exists a collective expectation which shapes a collective image. A degree of self-love is anticipated among all group of professionals, even when they may oppose each other within the same group. 

I recall someone joking that not just human beings, but even products can exhibit strict bad behavior. Human beings, in this regard, are better than products. Take a McDonald's burger, for example. It must be exactly that burger, not a mere imitation. Branded products are expected by those who have a preference for certain tastes. This situation is like certain movie stars become typecast based on their characters. This image is another expectation created by their profession. When people grow bored with a product, businesses often respond by introducing alternatives like a Local Burger, Indian Burger, or Italian Burger. This is one way to break the monotony of repetition. However, fanatics always demand, "I want an authentic burger." The word authentic there depends more on his cultural background. 

My book The God Particles is essentially a self-discovery-style fiction work, a novel. I wish to connect with the images you wish to see in your areas of work. That's my connection with the word Narcissism, be that love. Be that what you want to be. Everyone is in certain kinds of prisons. Prisons are created by the work each one does. One can not escape from that reality. Find your heaven of work and life. That would be a new prison. Let this book help you discover yourself.