In 2024, despite our technological advancements and supposed enlightenment, racism and discrimination continue to plague our society. As a species, we’ve developed an unfortunate habit of categorising people based on superficial characteristics such as skin colour, religion, caste, creed, sexuality, and physical appearance. This reductionist approach to human interaction, and the human condition is harmful and woefully inadequate in understanding the complexities of human nature.

Whilst judgement based on these factors persists without justification, it’s becoming increasingly clear that a more nuanced approach is necessary. Rather than relying on outdated and often prejudiced metrics, we should focus on understanding people through the lens of personality types and individual experiences.

I’ve previously written about this topic, and my book of nano fiction delves into the blurred lines between psychopathy, sociopathy, and narcissistic personality disorder. At this juncture, it’s crucial to shift our focus towards comprehending people based on their personality, upbringing, and family trauma. These factors offer a far more accurate and empathetic way of understanding human behaviour.

The traditional metrics of analysing and judging people should be considered obsolete. Instead, we need to approach human relationships from a different perspective, one that transcends caste, creed, and wealth. Mental health, particularly Cluster B personality disorders, which are often undiagnosed, should be at the forefront of our considerations. However, to truly understand others, one must first understand oneself.

We’ve made significant strides in understanding family trauma and generational trauma, including how these factors can affect a baby in utero. Research has shown that behaviours have both genetic and environmental components. Neuroscience has provided valuable insights into the roles of the prefrontal cortex and the limbic brain in shaping human behaviour and decision-making.

One particularly harmful misconception we’ve perpetuated is the alignment of wealth with moral goodness. This notion is not only false but dangerous. Research has shown an increase in white-collar crime, often perpetrated by individuals who exhibit traits associated with psychopathy and narcissistic personality disorder as defined by the DSM-5.

As someone who has personally experienced the effects of narcissistic abuse, I’d like to focus on narcissistic personality disorder. For instance, individuals who exhibit people-pleasing tendencies often have a history of narcissistic parents. This highlights the importance of understanding these patterns to break cycles of abuse and improve interpersonal relationships.

The ancient wisdom of the Delphic Oracle, “Know Thyself,” remains profoundly relevant today. This self-knowledge is crucial in navigating the complex tapestry of human interactions. Our education system prioritises academic achievement and career advancement but often needs to teach us how to understand our thoughts and behavioural patterns. We’re taught to judge others based on superficial characteristics, but we’re rarely instructed on how to truly connect with people on a deeper level.

In both the corporate world and personal life, we encounter diverse personalities. Recent years have seen several high-profile cases of individuals adept at manipulation and deceit, such as the masterminds behind the Fyre Festival, Anna Delvey’s social climbing schemes, the WeWork debacle, the FTX cryptocurrency exchange collapse, and the Kat Torres human trafficking controversy. These cases underscore the importance of being able to recognise and protect oneself from manipulative individuals.

Knowing yourself means acknowledging your vulnerabilities. You’ll come to realise that traits like people-pleasing tendencies and excessive empathy can be exploited by those who know how to manipulate others. By understanding your psychological makeup, you become better equipped to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics and protect yourself from exploitation.

In these turbulent times, arming oneself with knowledge is crucial. Reading and assimilating information from various sources can provide valuable tools for navigating life’s challenges. Books like Robert Greene’s “The 48 Laws of Power” and “Mastery,” as well as Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War,” offer insights into human nature and strategies for personal empowerment. However, it’s essential to approach such texts critically and ethically, using their wisdom to protect oneself rather than to manipulate others.

In conclusion, as we move forward in 2024 and beyond, we must shift our focus from judging others based on superficial characteristics to understanding the complexities of human personality and behaviour. By knowing ourselves more deeply and approaching others with empathy and discernment, we can foster more meaningful connections and create a society that truly values the richness of human diversity.