The phrase “sycophant” is derived from the Greek phrase “sykophants,” which implies “informer” or “false accuser.” It was initially used to explain individuals who made a residing by informing on others, typically for political or monetary achieve. Over time, the phrase “sycophant” has come for use extra typically to explain somebody who’s excessively, particularly towards these in energy.
Sycophants will be present in all walks of life, however they’re significantly widespread in politics and enterprise. They’re typically keen to say or do something to achieve favor with their superiors, even when it means betraying their very own values or beliefs. Sycophants will be very damaging to organizations, as they will create a tradition of worry and mistrust. They will additionally result in unhealthy decision-making, as leaders could also be extra more likely to take heed to the sycophants who inform them what they need to hear, fairly than the people who find themselves truly certified to provide them recommendation.
