[stu_]

This is an old but good read!

My take since then after numerous debates - there is merit hence the massive success of the Office series.

But in general it is a 'glass half empty' perspective. CEOs are often gifted, hard working, but also a bit lucky at times to be born into fortunate situations. Middle managers, are typically leadership-qualified but simply don't want to devote enough time for a CEO or startup founder role. And the rest- who generally do the 'real' work - are often there due to enjoying the work itself, and have even less interest than middle managers to devote time to climbing a ladder. (All of which are respectable positions)

The labels used in GP tend to give a bit more humor, and also attribute upward growth to negative qualities- so haters feel better about having to deal with folks who dont think like them - so it simultaneously appeals to each group!

Of course the more positive perspective is just as valid.

[titanomachy]

“Middle managers, are typically leadership-qualified but simply don't want to devote enough time for a CEO or startup founder role.”

I would say it’s not just a time issue, but often their risk tolerance that keeps them in middle management. The “sociopaths” are willing to take huge (but calculated) risks to advance their goals.