Hermann Goering, amiable psychopath.
By Gilbert, G. M.
The Journal of Abnormal and Social Psychology, Vol 43(2), Apr 1948, 211-229.
Abstract
With a good deal of new material the author of Nuremberg Diary tells the life history of the number 2 Nazi, showing consistency from early childhood in the development of Goering's peculiar psychopathy. Constitution played its part in his abilities and sadistic, aggressive leadership, but lack of feeling for others was due in part to the cold Prussian home life. Fed on Teutonic legend and Junker militarism, he believed deeply in loyalty to the Kaiser, military chivalry, military aristocracy, and German superiority. Peaceful or democratic people were repulsive to him. Never able to take punishment or to benefit from disapproval, he was completely self-centered. The Nazi party provided opportunity for military power, loyalty to an absolute Führer, sadistic excitement, revenge against enemies, and unlimited financial gain. He was shocked to realize that other Nazis were so unchivalrous as to wipe out populations of women and children. (He overlooked the similar effects of his Luftwaffe raids.) When rebuffed, he early learned to escape in phantasy, illness, or drug addiction. Play acting as an amiable nobleman served his phantasy needs. At Nuremberg he gave a fine performance, but the final indignities spoiled his heroic pose. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)