Why would pro golfing superstar, Tiger Woods, a man with a beautiful wife and young children, engage in a risky sexual affair that could threaten his marriage and reputation? Part of the answer is personal - between Mr. Woods and his wife. But another reason why powerful people such as Tiger Woods (the highest-earning pro athlete in history), engage in risky behaviors relates to the dynamics of power.

Powerful people, including famous leaders, will take risks - sexual affairs, engaging in illegal or unethical behavior - simply because they can. Being powerful and famous means that others are willing to do almost anything for them. They become "intoxicated" by their power. They believe that the rules that govern other people simply don't apply to them - what philosopher Terry Price calls "exceptioning." This is why celebrities and powerful politicians believe that they should "get a pass" when breaking the law or engaging in some other sort of social violation. And this gets reinforced because the devoted followers of the rich, famous, and powerful are all too willing to do whatever it takes to please the powerful person.