Final answer:
Positions of power contributed to the Watergate scandal as President Nixon and his aides engaged in illegal activities, believing they were above the law. The pervasive culture of entitlement, invulnerability, and a lack of accountability led to the downfall of Nixon's presidency after it was revealed he participated in the cover-up of the Watergate break-in.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Watergate scandal and the subsequent fall of President Nixon demonstrate how positions of power may contribute to corruption. Despite winning the 1972 election in a landslide, evidence surfaced that Nixon and his staffers had broken into the DNC headquarters. As the scandal unraveled, it was revealed that Nixon had authorized the use of campaign funds to hire operatives for illegal activities, including spying on political enemies. These units, known as 'White House Plumbers', were initially intended to prevent information leaks but quickly devolved into performing illicit operations.
The sense of invulnerability and entitlement that political power can foster, as well as the lack of accountability within Nixon's inner circle, likely contributed to the lawbreaking behavior. Furthermore, the administration's desire to control information and thwart perceived enemies resulted in the misuse of the federal government to surveil and sabotage political rivals.
Eventually, investigations and the revelation of a secret taping system in the White House led to the revelation that Nixon was involved in the cover-up of the break-in, contributing to his resignation. This episode stands as a stark reminder of how absolute power can corrupt absolutely and pose a direct threat to democratic principles.