Are most politicians sociopaths

Answer 1

No, I don't think you can call them that. Sociopaths usually have murderous or criminal intent and no sense of conscience, while politicians just want power and status (and the money that comes with it), and may have never planned to get caught up in political games when first starting out. Agreed, there are politicians who are dishonest (some have even gone to prison for taking bribes). And most politicians say whatever they think will get them elected, even if that means pandering to the needs of special interests-- the folks who fund their campaigns. But dishonest politicians are as old as politics itself, and dishonesty is a trait we can find in both major parties in the US (and most parties in other countries too). Further, politicians are all too aware of the need to say what they the voters want to hear; and sometimes, there are politicians who put expediency aside and speak from the heart. (And yes, I believe most politicians do have a heart.)

But if you are wondering whether politicians feel any empathy or have any sincere emotions (sociopaths generally do not), I would hate to generalize. While I have known many corrupt and devious politicians during my years in media, I have also known many decent and caring people who sincerely thought they could make a difference by going into politics. It's unfair to say the majority of politicians lack empathy or have devious intent. Some are indeed disreputable and not to be trusted. But in my experience, most have good intentions and are no more and no less dishonest than the average person.