Jeopardy! – it’s the name of the popular game show where answers are given in the form of a question. It’s also a good word to use to describe the current situation given the fate of many federal workers and, likely, our nation’s economy.
So let’s play Jeopardy!
Though psychotic individuals represent a mere 1.2 percent of the U.S. population, this particular psychopath is known to all. Your response should start with “Who is.”
Let’s start with a clue. While psychopathy, like other disorders, counts as a mental disease, it’s in a class by itself. It’s not easy to spot a psychopath. They can be intelligent, charming and good at mimicking emotions. They may pretend to be interested in you, but in reality they probably don’t care. They’re skilled actors whose sole mission is to manipulate people for personal gain. Traits of a psychopath are telling and include: superficial charm and glibness, inflated sense of self-worth, constant need for stimulation, lying, being manipulative, lack of remorse, shallow emotions, callousness and a lack of empathy. Characteristically, psychopaths display arrogance, act impulsively and fail to plan ahead.
Ironically, many of the attributes of this disease can appear strong, even appealing. Some of the positive psychopathic traits include: charisma, fearlessness, focus, mental toughness and ruthlessness. There is no known cure for psychopathy. These individuals are governed by a “my way or the highway” approach to life. Nothing matters more to them than whatever is foremost on their agenda.
So, who is it?
PAUL BLACKFORD
Franklin