Who Was More Narcissistic: Dick Cheney or Donald Trump

In the contentious realm of politics, the insatiable egos of Dick Cheney and Donald Trump stand as stark contrasts to the principles of humility and service that many leaders aspire to uphold. While both exhibited a form of grandiosity and self-worship, Trump's manifestation of these traits far exceeded Cheney's, earning him the dubious distinction of being arguably more narcissistic by a wide margin.

Based on the criteria for Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), Donald Trump exhibits characteristics that are more prevalent and severe than those of Dick Cheney. This article will delve into the traits and behaviors of both men to illustrate why Trump stands out more.

Narcissism and Power: Dick Cheney vs. Donald Trump

Both Cheney and Trump were jealously guarding against any diffusion of power, a trait often seen in leaders who prioritize control and authority. However, Henry Kissinger indulged in a milder form of this behavior while Nixon was more transparent in his own manipulations. In contrast, Cheney and Trump both insisted on extremes of loyalty, but Cheney was somewhat more modest and down-to-earth, at least in public perception.

Trump's Supreme Narcissism: A DSM-5 Analysis

No contest. Donald Trump by a wide margin. His actions, statements, and behaviors reflect a degree of narcissism that far surpasses that of Dick Cheney or any other political figure.

Consider a few key examples:

Grandiosity: Trump once famously said, "I can shoot somebody on Fifth Avenue and no one’s going to say anything." This statement exemplifies his belief in his own superiority and invincibility. Information Overload: He claims to know more than experts in every conceivable field—ranging from military generals and environmental scientists to economists and judges. This excessive and unrealistic confidence is a hallmark of NPD. Admiration and Entitlement: Trump craves constant attention and admiration, often seeking recognition in unlikely or inappropriate ways, such as asking to be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in the middle of a diplomatic crisis. This mirrors one of the core symptoms of NPD. Credit and Blame: He takes all the credit for successes but never accepts blame when things go wrong, further exemplifying his unwillingness to accept any responsibility. Manipulation and Exploitation: Throughout his career, Trump has been known for his manipulative tactics, using his status to gain personal advantage. This is another symptom of NPD. Intense Jealousy: His frequent public attacks on his opponents, even those with whom he has no real power dynamic, reveal a deep-seated fear of not being the most adored and admired. Pompous and Arrogant: His public persona is often characterized by a high degree of self-importance, which is evident in his interviews and public appearances.

Trump's Neurotic Personality Disorder Diagnosis

Donald Trump's behavior and statements align closely with the criteria for narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) as defined in DSM-5. Here is a review of how Trump's actions fit these diagnostic criteria:

Grandiose self-regard: Trump frequently displays exaggerated notions of his own importance and seeks constant attention and admiration. His claim to know everything and everyone in the world is a prime example of this. Belief in specialness: He believes he is better than others in every respect, a characteristic that is evident in his lavish treatment of himself and his businesses compared to his treatment of others. Exploitative behavior: Trump's use of others for personal gain, often by disparaging or manipulating them, is a clear sign of his NPD. Lack of empathy: His insensitivity to the feelings and needs of others is apparent in his dismissive and often cruel remarks about minorities, women, and other groups. Envy: His chronic jealousy of others and fear of being eclipsed by them is a consistent theme in his political and personal life. Pompous and arrogant demeanor: His public persona is consistently self-aggrandizing, reflecting a deep-seated need for recognition and adoration.

The Impacts of Trump's Narcissism

Consider the implications of Trump's narcissistic traits on his work performance and personal relationships. His ghost author, Tony Schwartz, found it impossible to interview Trump due to his boredom with the process, a clear sign of his inability to maintain meaningful relationships and focus on more important tasks.

The criteria for NPD also require that the individual's behavior must impair their ability to form meaningful relationships and function effectively in their work. Indeed, Trump's Dunning-Kruger effect—where his overestimation of his abilities impedes his ability to form genuine relationships or function successfully in his role as President—can be directly observed in his numerous public gaffes and controversies.

Conclusion

While both Dick Cheney and Donald Trump exhibited traits of arrogance and self-importance, the extensiveness and toxicity of Trump's narcissistic behaviors clearly set him apart. His grandiose self-regard, manipulative tactics, and inability to empathize with others make him a prime example of narcissistic personality disorder.

It is crucial to understand and address such traits to ensure the stability and effectiveness of leadership in our society.