The dictionary tells us that narcissism is "a psychological condition characterized by self-preoccupation, lack of empathy, and unconscious deficits in self-esteem." Maccoby-a psychoanalyst, anthropologist, and consultant-takes us further. He explains that "narcissistic leaders are not a product of their time; rather, they are a product of their personalities, and are psychologically suited to rise, and fall, during disruptive times." Sometimes their grandiosity serves them-and their organizations-well...especially if they (or their organizations) are protected by counterbalancing aides or confidants. Sometimes that grandiosity can be their downfall.
In this enjoyable and education book, Maccoby describes several psychological styles and how they influence leadership behavior. He concentrates on the productive narcissist, results-focused aggressive leaders who can valiantly lead their organizations to the brink of destruction. The good news---bad news juxtaposition is explored in page after page, with enlightening examples from the lives of historical figures like Napoleon to today's leaders whom we read about in the newspapers daily. Not only does he name names, but Maccoby goes deep into who these leaders are, what they did, why they did it, and the impacts of their behavior. It's a fascinating read that will have you bobbing your head with understanding and insight.
This book will be valuable to leaders-and not just narcissists. Human resource professionals, executive coaches, and venture capitalists will find the knowledge in these pages to be quite useful. A self-test, with full explanation of scoring and meaning, adds value to the book. Index.
Could anyone have forseen it?
If you had read Michael Maccoby's book you might have.
California's new "governator" has a classic Narcissistic personality-- in short, making him a charming, creative strategist focused on leaving a legacy.
Can Schwarzenegger "give back to California" all he says the state has given him?
Or does his stunning election success bear the seeds of our future disaster?
For the sake of all Californians, I hope that Schwarzenegger himself has studied Maccoby's book-- just as he may have studied the "Fuhrer princip" and body-building manuals in his youth.