High Self-Esteem

With all due respect for Martin Seligman (“Pursuing Happiness With a Positive Outlook, Not a Pill,” interview, Opinion, Jan. 24), bullies, violent gang leaders and genocidal maniacs do not have high self-esteem; they are arrogant. People with high self-esteem respect the rights of others and do not need to resort to violence to feel powerful. Arrogance is often confused with high self-esteem.

JOEL R. SUNKIN PhD

Clinical Psychologist

Downey