Sufferring from NPD (Narcissistic Personality Disorder)

“Al Gore, the latest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, is a poor choice, one likely not to stand the test of time. Leaving aside the school-marmish, preachy, superior attitude that makes him such a magnet for parody, Gore is a phony. On the basis of his actions and writings over many years my guess is that Gore suffers from Narcissistic Personality Disorder. The criteria for this diagnosis, as described in the psychiatrist’s bible, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, include a ‘pervasive pattern of grandiosity (in fantasy or behavior), need for admiration, and lack of empathy... a grandiose sense of self-importance (e.g., exaggerates achievements and talents, expects to be recognized as superior without commensurate achievements)... a preoccupation 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), and... shows arrogant, haughty behaviors or attitudes.’ People who suffer from Narcissistic Personality Disorder are tough to be around. They make terrible bosses, unbearable in-laws and insufferable neighbors. That’s why I don’t want Al Gore to be president—or to live next door to me.”

—Hoover Institution fellow Dr. Henry Miller