People keep ranting about sycophants and the art they practice. But I don't get it. Like the monarchs of all they survey, sycophants have an important role to play. Who else can do the following things as effectively?
1. Reinforce the self-esteem of the sycophantee (the recipient of the sycophancy- my contribution to the lexicon).
2. Carry tales from rivals and perceived rivals to him. MIS and communication systems rolled into one.
3. Tell humble subjects/subordinates/favour-seekers about his mood swings, and when they should approach him for a favourable outcome.
4. Keep undesirable people away, and let his reign be peaceful, undisturbed by potential bad news.
5. Twist all the news in such a way that it appears that the sycophantee is a gift from God to his subjects/subordinates.
Think of your workplace, and all the (p)syc(h)ophants there. What would the boss do without them?
1. Reinforce the self-esteem of the sycophantee (the recipient of the sycophancy- my contribution to the lexicon).
2. Carry tales from rivals and perceived rivals to him. MIS and communication systems rolled into one.
3. Tell humble subjects/subordinates/favour-seekers about his mood swings, and when they should approach him for a favourable outcome.
4. Keep undesirable people away, and let his reign be peaceful, undisturbed by potential bad news.
5. Twist all the news in such a way that it appears that the sycophantee is a gift from God to his subjects/subordinates.
Think of your workplace, and all the (p)syc(h)ophants there. What would the boss do without them?
