CNN: Frank Farley on risky behavior by politicians

In an opinion piece, Frank Farley, a professor in Temple's College of Education, asked why politicians commit adultery or "near-pornographic stunts" despite the watchful eyes of the public? "We value the positive side of risk-taking, which can make a bold, active, change-oriented leader. But sometimes that hard-wired risk-taking can take a negative or destructive form, particularly given the relentless opportunities for cheating in the political life....The deep self-confidence needed for risk-taking sometimes means the risk-taker refuses to acknowledge or see the possibility of getting caught, despite the fishbowl reality," he wrote.

CNN| June 8, 2011