Reading about Sarah Palin over the past few days as she's been vetted by the media and the blogosphere, and then watching her last night, I was reminded of a book I read recently by Martha Stout called, "The Sociopath Next Door".
I'm afraid that this is our Sarah Palin
As Stout explains, a sociopath is defined as someone who displays at least three of seven distinguishing characteristics, such as deceitfulness, impulsivity and a lack of remorse. Such people often have a superficial charm, which they exercise ruthlessly in order to get what they want.
The way Palin is portrayed in the Troopergate scandal, her lies about earmarks and the Bridge to Nowhere, her use of her kids as pawns and cover and her reputation for ruthlessness make her both a dangerous individual but also one who becomes fairly transparent over time. While I'm worried that 2 months isn't enough time, I doubt that she'll be able to stand up under any kind of interview or debate that goes beyond the softest softballs.
From an interview with the author:
How do you spot a sociopath?
A sociopath has no conscience, no ability to feel shame, guilt or remorse. Since 1 in 25 ordinary Americans is a sociopath, you almost certainly know one or more than one already. How can you recognize him or her?
* Sociopaths learn early on to show sham emotion, but underneath they live only to dominate others and win.
* They have a kind of glow or charisma that makes them more charming or interesting than the other people around them. They are more spontaneous, more intense, complex, or even sexier than everyone else.
* They crave stimulation and excitement, often showing brief intense enthusiasms that they later drop.
* They are seductive, encouraging others to take risks.
* They will tell you that you are just like them. Don't believe it.
Here's hopin' because we don't have much time.