The Dean's Disease: How the Darker Side of Power Manifests Itself in the Office of Dean

The article discusses how the darker side of power manifests itself in the specific office of dean. Commentators since the time of Greek dramatist Sophocles have noted that the exercise of power often produces strong psychological changes in people. As power holders, deans comprise far too few exceptions to this insight. Within months of taking office, feelings of overwhelming gratitude and oneness undergo a transformation so subtle that those affected are unaware of changes in their thinking and behavior. As described by psychologist David Kipnis, power holders, unknowingly become puffed up with their own importance. The metamorphic effects of power are at first imperceptible, but quickly act to change humanitarian impulses. As observed by psychoanalyst Manfred Kets de Vries, being in the top position influences the way others relate to power holders and this in turn affects their thinking and, then, behavior. Whereas these changes may take place in individuals occupying any higher level position, the role of dean in a traditional academic college is so unique as to magnify their consequences.