Abstract
ABSTRACTThe concept of narcissism normalisation suggests that individuals and societies are becoming more narcissistic due to various cultural influences. Tourism is reviewed here as one such possible influence. Exploitative, entitled and exhibitionistic tendencies associated with narcissism are well-established in tourism. Yet tourism is also an intimate, communal and satisfying activity which may counteract narcissism. Increases in narcissism have significant implications from a sustainable tourism perspective. Narcissism is associated with exploitative and entitled behaviours that over time cause significant harm to those people and landscapes that come into contact with. Narcissism appears to be incompatible with principles of sustainability and the challenges this poses for the industry are reviewed, while the opportunities are also explored. There are signs that narcissism, particularly those aspects relating to exhibitionism, can be co-opted to benefit sustainable development.
Highlights
This article is interested in increases in narcissism amongst individuals and societies, the role of tourism within this, and implications for sustainability of the industry
There is some evidence to suggest that tourism is likewise becoming more narcissistic
There may be a tendency to overdramatise (Pearce & Moscardo, 2015), it appears that narcissistic traits are becoming more prevalent amongst individuals and groups in modern society
Summary
This article is interested in increases in narcissism amongst individuals and societies, the role of tourism within this, and implications for sustainability of the industry As such it focuses not on clinical or pathological narcissism, a recognised personality disorder, but rather on culturally informed narcissistic attitudes and traits (Ackerman et al, 2010). The tourist self in this view remains rigid or static and turned in on oneself, shrinking rather than expanding In such cases, tourism may be a pastime which reinforces and protects the ego, furthering the narcissistic traits and problems associated with (MacCannell, 2002). Egoistic values were associated with less environmentally sensitive attitudes including a greater sense of personal entitlement in using resources for enjoyment purposes during tourism experiences and less willingness to curb personal freedoms or to consider personal impact on nature and cultures when making travel decisions”. Green-washing for instance is a well acknowledged limitation of many sustainable tourism products (i.e. Stronza and Gordillo, 2008) and may appeal to the narcissistic consumer interested in image rather than genuine commitment
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