In an earlier age, it might have been possible to believe that goodness would prevail over pride, but not anymore. The proud could be proud with impunity, because there was nobody to contradict him in his pride and because narcissism was no longer considered a vice. That was what the whole cult of celebrity was about, she thought; and we fêted these people and fed their vanity.
In the past, it was easier to accept that virtue could triumph over arrogance, but that belief has waned significantly. Nowadays, individuals can express their pride openly without fear of criticism or opposition. The lack of accountability means that narcissistic behavior has become normalized rather than frowned upon.
This shift in societal values is highlighted by the growing obsession with celebrity culture, which she notes fosters and celebrates vanity. By glorifying public figures, people inadvertently nurture a culture that prioritizes self-importance and egotism over genuine goodness.