[Explorer89]

"Greed is the silent presence at the meeting. There is something here that goes much deeper than simple hypocrisy. What perversions of basic human nature are at work and why?

It is hypocrisy, but it is also willful self-delusion. Modern parallel: Al Gore is telling us how to "live green", yet has an energy-munching mansion, flies in private planes, etc.

Another parallel: that stupid Ashton Kuchner "I pledge" video. Those people are living a much more extravagant, selfish life than I am, yet deem it necessary to preach to me on how to live a good life in service of "the greater good".

I really think all of these people who are truly greedy (Al Gore making money on his crusade) have to convince themselves that they are working for good.

It isn't just self-delusion, it is rationalization.

[Publius]

I really think all of these people who are truly greedy (Al Gore making money on his crusade) have to convince themselves that they are working for good.

On the money. There are different laws for them than there are for us. They are the truly enlightened, far beyond the concerns of mere mortals like us.

[CottonBall]

Another parallel: that stupid Ashton Kuchner "I pledge" video. Those people are living a much more extravagant, selfish life than I am, yet deem it necessary to preach to me on how to live a good life in service of "the greater good".
I really think all of these people who are truly greedy (Al Gore making money on his crusade) have to convince themselves that they are working for good.
It isn't just self-delusion, it is rationalization.

When I think of those that have really lived simple lives - like Thoreau - they never have told others that they have to do the same. Or put them down because they didn't. Those that truly lead by example don't just mouth the rhetoric - they live it and let others chose without pressure or guilt.