Jennifer Roback Morse on Inflated Ego Syndrome and the Hazards of Celebrity

"A recent internet uproar over the behavior of a Catholic celebrity reminded me of an incident from my days as a graduate student in economics.

"During one class, my labor economics professor scraped his fingernails on the chalkboard. We all grimaced. He looked at the class and said dryly, 'Occupational hazard.'

"Yes, economists really do talk like that.

"The Catholic celebrity being uncharitable reminded me of these 'occupational hazards.' An inflated ego is a hazard of some occupations. No need to name this individual to make him look bad: He did that all by himself, without any help from me (or without any sense of irony.) The behavior pattern is the same, whether it is a political figure, a talking-head commentator, a pop star with an opinion or a Catholic celebrity you admire and think really ought to know better."

In a recent commentary, writer Dr. Jennifer Roback Morse reflected on "Inflated Ego Syndrome," selfishness, pride, and the importance of building people up and avoiding tearing people down.

To access her complete essay, please visit:

National Catholic Register: Inflated Ego Syndrome and the Hazards of Celebrity (15 APR 19)