"Prioritising Moral Posturing"

From Aporia, by Bert Parlee and Keith Thompson  Communal Narcissism. 

A great deal of this resonated for me from what I saw working in Human Services since 1976. There is a brash, obvious narcissism which grates on nearly everyone, but there is an equal and opposite narcissism that is certain it is not narcissistic at all, because its self aggrandisement is more subtle.  In some individuals it is not at all apparent because it is suave, it does not need to raise its voice, its rudeness is condescension and disdain. 

Of course, the pathological aspects of the new condition announce themselves in markedly different words and gestures. It had previously been assumed that these characteristics were healthy—unlike the well-known characteristics of overt narcissism so readily apparent in people like Trump. Remarkably, the experts nearly missed telltale signs of what they would go on to characterize as communal narcissism (“communal” indicating that individuals seek validation and admiration through their perceived contributions to social groups or communities, rather than through personal achievements). To our surprise, and that of the researchers themselves, communal narcissism turns out to be the equal and opposite variant of the self-centered overt type in which individuals boast about being “the best”. 

Many of the cultural figures, including politicians, who are regarded as humble, tolerant, and welcoming grate on me worse than Trump. Donald is the kid you wanted to smack in hall in high school, boisterously challenging and insulting others.  These others are the ones who cut you effectively in front of your prom date while smiling, because they were hoping to get into her pants.