Based on an ancient myth that crocodiles would weep to lure prey or show false remorse while consuming their victims, this concept of performative grief dates back to the 14th-century travels of Sir John Mandeville. While crocodiles possess tear ducts to lubricate their eyes during consumption, the “emotion” is purely biological. In a professional context, the phrase is a critique of disingenuous empathy or a strategic display of emotion intended to manipulate an audience.
Tags: Psychology, Mythology, Integrity