Ethan Dennis: Examining a narcissist’s role in the climate crisis

Ethan Dennis, BSc Psychology joins us to discuss his research into the role of sub-clinical narcissism in the climate crisis, investigating the research on the relationship between narcissism and pro-environmental behaviour, and how this can be remedied. Three types of narcissism are examined: grandiose, vulnerable and communal. Literature suggests grandiose narcissists are detrimental to the environment, with communal narcissists claiming to be more environmental than they actually are. Research on the conspicuous consumption of material goods and the experiential consumption within tourism is analysed for each form of narcissism, within the context of the environment. Two potential ways narcissists can be encouraged to engage in pro-environmental behaviour and reduce their environmental impact are proposed, as well as recommendations for the future of research into narcissists’ environmental behaviour.Episode Guest: Ethan Dennis, BSc PsychologyEpisode Host: Prof Simon KempProducer and Editor: Jack Dinham