Monumental monumentality

Alex G. Tsakumis, online journalist, describes Gordon Campbell and doing so, provides a text book example of word economy.

When the American Psychiatric Association, which knows naught about word economy, describes Narcissistic Personality Disorder, it may connect more to A.G.T.'s description than we care to admit.

A pervasive pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy as indicated by five or more of the following:

• has a grandiose sense of self-importance;

• is preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love;

• believes that he or she is "special" and unique and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other special or high-status people (or institutions);
  

• requires excessive admiration;

• has a sense of entitlement, i.e., unreasonable expectations of especially favorable treatment or automatic compliance with his or her expectations;
  

• interpersonally exploitative, i.e., takes advantage of others to achieve his or her own ends;

• lacks empathy: is unwilling to recognize or identify with the feelings and needs of others;

• is often envious of others or believes that others are envious of him or her;

• shows arrogant, haughty behaviors or attitudes.

It can be difficult to establish the line between healthy narcissism and pathological self-importance and political leaders hang toes over the edge often. But, as careers extend, the likelihood grows that lines of demarcation blur or vanish.

Has Gordon Campbell toppled over his precipice? Or, does he only hear people handsomely paid to say:

Indeed, the emperor’s new suit is incomparable! What a long train he has! How well it fits him!”

Dare anyone close say he has nothing on at all?

Many British Columbians believe that he is victimized by the unchallenged regality of his position. One of those people is Gerry Hummel of TERRACE DAILY ONLINE. The artist provides us with his definitive opinion.

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