The megalomaniac differs from the narcissist by the fact that he wishes to be powerful rather than charming, and seeks to be feared rather than loved. To this type belong many lunatics and most of the great men of history.

Russell draws a sharp psychological and moral distinction between two forms of self-absorption. The narcissist craves admiration and affection—social approval as proof of worth—whereas the megalomaniac craves dominance, preferring awe and intimidation to love. By linking megalomania not only to “lunatics” but also to “most of the great men of history,” he provocatively suggests that celebrated historical achievement often travels with a will-to-power that can shade into pathology. The remark functions as a skeptical warning about hero-worship: greatness, especially in politics and conquest, may be driven less by virtue than by an appetite for control and the emotional rewards of being feared.