Megalomania

Megalomania is a psychological condition characterized by delusions of grandeur, power, wealth, or omnipotence. Individuals experiencing megalomania often hold an exaggerated sense of self-importance and may believe they possess special abilities or unique talents. This inflated self-perception can lead to unrealistic aspirations, a disregard for others, and a tendency to engage in grandiose schemes or projects. megalomania is not a clinical diagnosis in itself but a symptom often associated with other mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder (manic phase), narcissistic personality disorder, and schizophrenia. It's typically manifested by delusions of grandeur, inflated self-esteem, and a lack of empathy. The term 'megalomania' combines the Greek words 'megas' (great) and 'mania' (madness or frenzy), indicating a state of being obsessed with greatness.

Megalomania meaning with examples

• The dictator's megalomania led him to believe he was invincible, resulting in reckless military campaigns and the suppression of any dissenting voices. He demanded to be referred to as 'the Great' and constructed colossal monuments to himself, indicative of his inflated sense of self-importance. He was unable to recognise the needs of the people and the problems facing the nation, because of his obsession with his own power.
• Her belief that she was destined to revolutionize the art world, despite her limited artistic skill, was a clear sign of megalomania. She demanded to be treated as a visionary, dismissing constructive criticism as jealousy and boasting constantly about her imagined future successes. Her sense of entitlement, combined with unrealistic ambition, created a rift between her and everyone around her.
• The software entrepreneur's megalomania was evident in his constant pronouncements of groundbreaking inventions that never materialized, and claims to be far superior to his competitors. He invested his entire fortune into his own project to prove his superiority, whilst neglecting his family and employees, because of his self-deception. He struggled to work well with any people in order to achieve his goals.
• After the bankruptcy, and after he had lost everything, his megalomania shifted to a sense of paranoid delusions. He then developed a conviction that a vast conspiracy was trying to steal his ideas and ruin his life. He became obsessed with the idea of revenge and with imagining that he would one day regain his lost glory, without ever assessing how he arrived where he was.