At WLBOTT, we like simple solutions to complex problems.
Today, we will make the world a better place by simply getting rid of psychopaths in positions of power.
[ed. note: conversation with chatGPT, edited for space, full conversation below]
Q: Let’s talk about science fiction. I’ve read several books, set in the future, where society can find and filter out psychopaths. This keeps psychopaths from getting into power, and the world is a much better place. Do you have any examples?
A: Certainly! One notable science fiction book that explores the theme of identifying and filtering out psychopaths to create a better society is “The Three Stigmata of Palmer Eldritch” by Philip K. Dick, published in 1965. While the primary focus of the novel is on issues of reality, perception, and drug-induced alternate worlds, it also delves into the idea of psychopathy and its implications on society.
Imagining a society without psychopaths in positions of power raises several potential improvements:
1. Empathy-driven leadership
2. Fair and just policies
3. Reduced corruption
4. Long-term planning and sustainability
5. Improved social cohesion
6. Enhanced trust in institutions
7. Advancements in mental health support
8. Ethical decision-making
[ed. note: hadn’t heard of “The Three Stigmata of Palmer Eldritch”, but it has some really cool cover art]
Corruptible
Turns out, a pretty sharp guy has thought about this and took a deep dive. Brian Paul Klaas is an American political scientist and contributing writer at The Atlantic. He is an associate professor in global politics at University College London. He is the author of Corruptible: Who Gets Power and How It Changes Us. He is also the co-author of How to Rig an Election.
Interesting (and long 1:59:56), interview with Brian Klaas:
Prof. Klaas begins his talk by describing the petty dictators of Home Owner’s Associations. John Oliver puts some frosting on this cake:
The Future is Ours
Some utopian/dystopian memes:
Practicing what we Preach
How cool is the Austin Public Library? Very cool.
ChatGPT full transcript
[Q]: Let’s talk about science fiction. I’ve read several books, set in the future, where society can find and filter out psychopaths. This keeps psychopaths from getting into power, and the world is a much better place. Do you have any examples?
[A]: Certainly! One notable science fiction book that explores the theme of identifying and filtering out psychopaths to create a better society is “The Three Stigmata of Palmer Eldritch” by Philip K. Dick, published in 1965. While the primary focus of the novel is on issues of reality, perception, and drug-induced alternate worlds, it also delves into the idea of psychopathy and its implications on society.
In “The Three Stigmata of Palmer Eldritch,” a powerful and enigmatic figure named Palmer Eldritch returns from an interstellar voyage with new drugs that offer people an escape from reality by letting them experience other worlds. However, there are concerns that Palmer Eldritch himself may be a psychopath. The authorities try to regulate the use of the drugs to prevent potential harm caused by psychopaths wielding such powerful substances.
While the concept of identifying and filtering out psychopaths to maintain societal order is an intriguing aspect of the novel, it’s only one element in a larger, complex narrative.
There might be other science fiction works that explore similar themes in different ways, but “The Three Stigmata of Palmer Eldritch” stands out as a classic example. Please note that I might not be aware of more recent science fiction novels published after September 2021, so there could be newer works exploring this theme as well.
How would society improve if there were no psychopaths in power?
Imagining a society without psychopaths in positions of power raises several potential improvements:
1. Empathy-driven leadership: Psychopaths lack empathy and often make decisions solely for their own benefit, disregarding the needs and well-being of others. Without them in power, leaders could prioritize the welfare of the entire society, making more compassionate and empathetic decisions.
2. Fair and just policies: Psychopaths are often manipulative and may exploit loopholes for personal gain. In their absence, policies and regulations could be more equitable and designed to promote social justice.
3. Reduced corruption: Psychopaths might engage in corrupt practices to enrich themselves at the expense of society. Without them in power, there could be a decrease in corruption and a higher level of accountability.
4. Long-term planning and sustainability: Psychopaths often prioritize short-term gains over long-term consequences. Leaders without psychopathic tendencies might focus on sustainable development and planning for the future.
5. Improved social cohesion: Psychopaths may sow division and discord for their benefit. Leaders who value cooperation and unity could foster a more cohesive and harmonious society.
6. Enhanced trust in institutions: A society without psychopaths in power might lead to greater trust in governmental and institutional structures, as leaders act in the best interest of the people.
7. Advancements in mental health support: In a psychopath-free society, there could be more emphasis on understanding and treating psychopathy as a mental health condition rather than letting it manifest in positions of power.
8. Ethical decision-making: Leaders without psychopathic traits might prioritize ethics and moral considerations in their decision-making processes.
It’s important to note that no society is free from complex challenges, and removing psychopaths from power does not guarantee a utopian society. Still, such a scenario could foster an environment that promotes empathy, cooperation, and well-being for the majority, potentially leading to a more stable and harmonious society.