Now do you see why the dog on the roof is a big deal?

[laundry_queen]

100. Interesting post.

I agree with most things you have said, especially the first paragraph. I'd take issue with GWB not being a sociopath - I think he definitely is one - I have no doubt he lacks a conscience and his patterns of behavior go back to adolescence (a must to be diagnosed with AsPD). Sociopaths ('dumb' ones) often turn to substance abuse because it fills the void they feel from not being concerned with other people's feelings/lives. 'Smarter' sociopaths, you are correct, love power because it enables them to manipulate everyone around them.

Robert Hare, an expert on psychopaths (he uses the term sociopath interchangeably with psychopath), says that most of them get a kick out of causing turmoil and just watching it play out. The power/fortune/fame is just a tool that they use.

I agree Palin is more narcissistic than anything. I DO think Gingrich is also a sociopath. He has the same easy way of blurting out complete lies as totally believeable statements, without flinching or stuttering (or pausing to think), as my ex-husband has (who checks off every single item on the DSM-IV list for AsPD) - in addition to all the other things. That's one thing that weirds me out about Romney - he stutters an awful lot - I wonder if it's because he's been coached too much and wants this so bad he's petrified of making a mistake, or if deep down he's worried soon he'll be found out for what he really is. Most sociopaths don't like to be 'found out' because it wrecks their games. People don't want to play the 'life' game with sociopaths. It's part of the reason why the good ones get so adept at appearing to be normal/caring people.

I disagree about Santorum. I think he's just plain brainwashed by religion, as Michelle Bachman is. I honestly think the disdain Santorum has for Romney has to do with religion and Romney's perceived 'moderate' status.

Anyhow, thanks for the intersting conversation.