22.21 Suppress the victim-monger bigot

Be clear that this is not referring to those who genuinely seek to help a genuine victim. The aim is to suppress victim mongering which disempowers people by promoting victim consciousness rather than empowerment. Where there truly is a victim, step in to help. Where there truly is a perpetrator, if you can, stop them, deter them or punish them.

We are victim-mongers when we derive psychological pleasure from the act of patronising a perceived victim. It is the power that is pleasurable. We have to keep the victim in their victim state in order to maintain that powerful position as a rescuer. We relish the opportunity to attack perceived oppressors under the cover of doing good. That creates new victims and sets up more cycles of conflict and hatred, which empowers no one and hinders our common development. Wherever you detect victim consciousness, challenge it compassionately with inspiring, empowering and incisive questions. We need to bring about a culture of empowerment through creativity, coaching and challenge.