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How can you tell if someone has traits of Machiavellianism? If you think someone you know fits this personality type, here’s what you need to know.

In the realm of strategic masterminds and cunning characters, there is one person who stands out – someone with the traits of Machiavellianism. This is a person who is so adept at navigating the social maze with a blend of charm, cunning and strategic skill that they can give a masterclass in the art of influence.

Machiavellianism is a fascinating psychological concept that highlights traits such as strategic manipulation, emotional detachment, and the constant pursuit of personal gain.

It’s like watching a game of chess where every move is calculated, not only to win, but also to dominate.

In this article, we are going to explore these Machiavellian characteristics, not through dry facts and figures, but by painting a vivid and compelling picture in the form of the characters who embody them.

What exactly is Machiavellianism?

Have you ever met someone who could give the best chess grandmasters a run for their money, not just on the chessboard, but in the game of life? Enter the realm of Machiavellianism, where strategy is not just a board game strategy, but a way of life.

The term is derived from the Renaissance philosopher Niccolo Machiavelli, best known for his treatise “The Prince.”

In the psychological sense, Machiavellianism is not about dressing up in Renaissance garb and plotting to take over kingdoms.

It’s about a specific set of personality traits that include manipulation, a focus on self-interest, and a lack of moral discipline – you know, the kind of person who plays mind games better than playing any real game.

This trio are like ‘bad boys’ in terms of personality traits, not exactly the ones you want to bring home to meet your parents.

While narcissists are busy admiring their reflection and psychopaths are, well, psychopaths, Machiavellians are quietly pulling the strings, thinking three steps ahead in social situations.

Machiavellians may be brilliant strategists, but they are playing a different game – one where they are always looking out for number one, and where everyone else is a pawn or player to be outwitted.

So, while they may be fascinating characters to read about or watch in movies, in real life, they’re more likely to win the award for ‘Most Likely to Plot World Domination’ than ‘Bestie of the Year’.

What causes someone to become a Machiavellian?

Or is it something that develops over time? Let’s learn about the science that promotes these Machiavellian traits.

1. Genetic influence

It’s not all about parenting; Genes also play a role. Research suggests that there may be genetic factors that predispose individuals to a tendency towards Machiavellian traits.

However, it is not a direct path from genes to Machiavellian traits; Environmental factors often activate or exacerbate these symptoms.

2. Early childhood experiences

Childhood shapes us, and it is no different for the Machiavellians. Studies indicate that inconsistent parenting, trauma, or neglect can lead to the development of Machiavellian traits.

3. Social and environmental factors

Our environment continues to mold us. If someone grows up in an environment where deception and manipulation are common, they may adopt these behaviors as normal.

It’s like learning the language of manipulation to survive and thrive in difficult environments. Over time, these traits can become deeply ingrained in their personality.

4. Adaptation to competition

When the world feels like a never-ending competition, developing Machiavellian traits can seem like a smart way to stay ahead. It’s like learning to play dirty to win a race where the rules are constantly changing.

5. Desire for power and control

Some people have a strong desire for power and control, and Machiavellianism can be a means to that end.

It’s like realizing that owning a puppet can often take you further than being the puppeteer.

How to recognize these Machiavellian traits?

Are you wondering what Machiavellianism looks like in your daily life? Pay attention to these key traits, which are often hidden in plain sight, and see how they reflect certain scenarios or characters you may be familiar with.

1. Deception and manipulation

Other traits of a Machiavellian are lying, distorting facts, and manipulating people to get what they want. Think about the classic workplace scenario where someone takes credit for your ideas.

Or, for a pop culture spin, imagine a character like Littlefinger from “Game of Thrones” who manipulates his way through the political landscape.

2. Emotional detachment

This detachment allows them to make decisions without being clouded by emotions – a quality that is beneficial in high-risk environments but can be counterproductive in personal relationships.

3. Focus on self-interest and personal gain

If there’s one thing Machiavellians are great at, it’s looking out for number one. They prioritize their interests and benefits above everything else.

4. Lack of moral or ethical considerations

Machiavellians are not known for playing by the rules. They often ignore moral or ethical standards if these standards get in the way of their goals.

This quality is like the student who cheats during an exam, not out of frustration, but as a deliberate ploy to get ahead.

5. Strategic long-term planning

It’s like a chess player who is always thinking five steps ahead, or a character in a thriller movie who is always one step ahead of the hero.

6. Skilled in social influence

Machiavellians are often charismatic and persuasive. They know how to use their charm and eloquence to influence and sway others into their viewpoint.

7. Cynical worldview

The defining trait of Machiavellianism is general skepticism toward others. They often believe that other people are equally cunning and untrustworthy.

This worldview is like a defense attorney who assumes everyone is guilty until proven innocent, always expecting ulterior motives behind people’s actions.

8. Exploiting relationships

They are like networkers who collect contacts like trading cards, not for the pleasure of connections, but for the potential benefits they may get from these connections in the future.

9. Less emotional involvement in relationships

They often get involved in relationships with little emotional investment. To a Machiavellian, relationships are strategic moves on a chessboard rather than emotional bonds. It is more akin to a corporate merger than a genuine friendship or partnership.

10. Practical Ethics

This pragmatism is like a politician who changes his stance on issues based on opinion polls rather than personal conviction.

11. Resistance to social influences

While they are good at influencing others, Machiavellians are often resistant to influence themselves. They are like skeptical consumers who are not easily swayed by advertising or sales pitches, always looking for an angle or a catch.

12. Opportunistic approach to rules

They are willing to bend or break the rules if it benefits them. This approach is similar to a player in a game who is always looking for loopholes or ways to bend the rules to gain an advantage.

13. Lack of empathy

A key aspect of Machiavellianism is a lack of empathy. They often struggle to understand or share others’ emotions, which aids in their manipulative efforts.

14. Lack of remorse or guilt

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to be unconcerned with the consequences of their manipulative actions? This is a classic Machiavellianism trait.

Psychological studies show that this lack of remorse is associated with reduced emotional response to negative stimuli. This trait allows Machiavellians to achieve their goals without the emotional baggage that may hinder others.

15. Superficial Attraction

This behavior is often compared to some sales techniques, where the goal is to persuade rather than to build a genuine relationship.

16. Focus on control

Why do Machiavellians crave control? Studies indicate that a high need for control is a defense mechanism against unpredictability and vulnerability.

17. High Adaptability

Machiavellians are known for their adaptability to various social situations. This characteristic is not just an anecdotal observation but is supported by psychological research.

Studies in social psychology, such as those examining social cognition and emotional intelligence, indicate that individuals with Machiavellian tendencies are often skilled at reading social cues and adjusting their behavior to fit different scenarios.

This serves as a strategic advantage, allowing Machiavellians to navigate complex social scenarios and manipulate situations to their advantage.

18. Lack of long-term relationships

The struggle that Machiavellians face in maintaining long-term relationships has been well documented in psychological research.

Studies, such as those exploring attachment styles and interpersonal relationships, suggest that a Machiavellian focus on self-interest and manipulation often undermines the trust and mutual respect needed for deep, lasting relationships.

The transient nature of these relationships is both a consequence and reinforcement of their Machiavellian qualities.

19. Enjoy manipulating others

The pleasure Machiavellians derive from manipulating others is a subject of interest in psychological studies, particularly those focusing on Dark Triad traits.

This feeling of accomplishment is similar to the pleasure a sports player feels when defeating opponents. It is not just about achieving goals, but also about the thrill of exerting control and dominance in social interactions.

Benefits of Machiavellian Traits

Although we are not advocating that everyone should channel their inner Machiavelli, it is interesting to note that the traits of Machiavellianism do have their advantages in some contexts.

1. Strategic thinking

Machiavellians often excel at strategic thinking. This is supported by research in organizational psychology that suggests that their ability to see, plan, and think several steps ahead makes them adept at navigating complex strategic scenarios.

In roles that demand a high level of foresight and planning, such as business strategy or legal advice, this characteristic can be invaluable.

2. Compatibility

The ability of a Machiavellian to read a room and adapt their behavior is an important asset, especially in dynamic environments.

Studies in social psychology highlight how this adaptability stems from their skills in reading social cues and adjusting their strategies to suit different social and professional situations.

3. Flexibility in high-pressure situations

Machiavellian emotional detachment, often viewed negatively, can be beneficial in high-stress occupations.

Psychological research indicates that this isolation helps them maintain a level of calmness and collectivity in stressful situations, allowing them to make clear decisions when others may be overwhelmed with emotions.

4. Persuasive Communication

Machiavellian persuasive skills have been well documented in psychological studies, particularly in the fields of interpersonal influence and persuasion tactics.

Their ability to articulate ideas and influence others makes them effective in roles that require strong negotiation skills or the ability to sell ideas and viewpoints.

5. Conflict Resolution Skills

Can be Machiavellian…