You have nailed the correlation between narcisism and occupying higher positions in the hierarchy. There is ample evidence in psy literature which suggests so. Even sociopaths populate more the high levels comparing to the others. Why? Well because the jungle's law is still thriving within us and those who "break" the boundaries will always get the Lion's share. I am not suggesting we become intentional assholes here but living in a pink and fluffy world doesn't help either ;). Nevertheless I get the kind of asshole you are portraying in here. It is a sheep in disguise, corrupted people who need to have an armor and they end up being arrogant and rude. The typical small d** syndrome ;)