Could narcissism, as Nietzsche suggests, be an important part of being true to ourselves?
The selfie was responsible for 73 deaths in the first eight months of 2016 - ten times as many as were killed by shark attacks. This is surely a sign that we live in a narcissistic age. Yet from Steve Jobs to Kanye West and Donald Trump, narcissism seems linked to success. Is this because self-obsession is an effective life strategy? Could narcissism, as Nietzsche suggests, be an important part of being true to ourselves? Or is it a dangerous strategy and true genius requires self-doubt?
Helen Lederer: Narcissism is part of the modern digital age, and is key to success.
Steve Taylor: Narcissism doesn’t lead to happiness – we need to look outside ourselves
Shahidha Bari: Narcissism is reflexive and allows for self-care as well as sympathy
Sussan Babaie: There is no causal link between narcissism and genius/success. Self-doubt is useful.
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