The Ruthless, Cunning, and Manipulative Leadership of Machiavellianism.

Does it sound like anyone we know?

Machiavellianism, a term derived from the name of Niccolò Machiavelli, the Italian Renaissance politician and philosopher, is a personality type deeply rooted in history. Machiavelli, known for his work 'The Prince,' argued that effective rule requires cunning and manipulation, which gave birth to Machiavellianism.

Over time, it became known as Machiavellianism, a personality trait involving manipulation, deceit, and amorality. In contemporary psychology, Machiavellianism is one-third of the composition in what is referred to as the "Dark Triad," which also includes narcissism and psychopathy.

Individuals high in Machiavellianism are often perceived as calculating, strategic, and self-interested. They can manipulate others using charm, deceit, and exploitation. Research has identified key psychological features of this trait, including cynicism and manipulativeness, adding a layer of complexity to this personality type.

First, people who are higher in Machiavellianism are cynical. From this latter perspective, they often view their manipulative behaviors as furthering a justified end.

Second, Machiavellians are not just manipulative. They are also astute strategic thinkers. They excel at reading social situations and understanding others' motivations, enabling them to manipulate people and situations to their advantage. This ability, often called 'cold cognition,' showcases their detached and unemotional approach to plotting their moves, impressing their intellect.

Third, people high in this personality trait pay little attention to common morality. They will break the rules and norms only if it is instrumental for their purposes, and moral considerations are rather bothersome than a guiding value for them.

When people are in positions of power or influence where their actions significantly impact others, their lack of moral restraint makes them especially dangerous. This aspect of Machiavellianism should raise concern and awareness about the potential risks involved.

While it shares some overlap with psychopathy and narcissism, it is distinct in its focus on strategic manipulation rather than the impulsivity of psychopathy or the grandiosity of narcissism.

Machiavellians are typically careful and calculated rather than impulsive, which makes their manipulations subtle and hard to notice. However, since they can be charismatic and persuasive, they make allies and gain support when it suits their purposes.

For instance, some political figures have been described as Machiavellian due to their strategic manipulation of public opinion and ability to gain support when it suits their purposes.

Does any of this sound familiar? Does it bring to mind a person in the news and the coming election?