ABSTRACT
Since envy is the most pernicious, and, indeed, amplifies the impact of all other forms of negativity, this chapter explores the origins and ramifications of envy in greater detail. While malicious aggression is the active component of envy, not all aggression is malicious. Whether aggression is constructive or destructive depends on the context and motivation. Envy is both the tension and the hostile reaction to this tension in the envier, a tension which is not dependent on, or necessarily related to anything actually happening. In most situations the envier aims to eliminate the torment in himself by forceful, attacking, annihilative behaviour. The awareness of vitality and prosperity, indeed, of life itself, always arouses envious or narcissistic tension. It is worth noting that the omnipotence of a child of narcissistic parents can also be a learned response, a variation of “identification with the aggressor”.
