Case: The Bathsheba Syndrome
Have you ever wondered why people, such as General Petraeus and Harvey Weinstein, who have made it to the top stumble and fall? Were they bad people all along, or did a perfect storm of interacting variables lead to their downfall? How can we prevent leaders at the top of organizations from engaging in unethical acts and bringing the rest down with them?
To complete this discussion, first, read The Bathsheba Syndrome: The Ethical Failure of Successful Leaders. Then, for your initial post, address the following:
If virtue or good character is, as Aristotle says, a good habit, then what happened to King David?
When we select leaders, how is it possible to tell which ones are likely to fall prey to the Bathsheba Syndrome?
In Module 2, you explored the idea of unchecked power in the Ring of Gyges. How is this different? Would you have acted the same in King David’s position?
Sample Answer
The Bathsheba Syndrome is a term coined by psychiatrist Dr. George Weinberg to describe the phenomenon of successful leaders who engage in unethical or destructive behaviors. The syndrome is named after the biblical story of King David, who committed adultery with Bathsheba and then had her husband killed to cover up his crime.
There are a number of factors that can contribute to the Bathsheba Syndrome. These include:
- Unchecked power: When leaders have unchecked power, they may be more likely to believe that they are above the law or that they can get away with anything.
- Greed: Leaders who are driven by greed may be more likely to engage in unethical behavior in order to further their own interests.
- Emotional instability: Leaders who are emotionally unstable may be more likely to make impulsive decisions that they later regret.
- Lack of moral compass: Leaders who lack a strong moral compass may be more likely to justify unethical behavior.