Summary
Highlights
Machiavellianism is a personality trait characterized by extreme manipulation, deceit, and cunning to achieve goals like power. It's one of the three tenets of the Dark Triad, alongside narcissism and psychopathy. Examples from fiction include Frank Underwood and Walter White.
Machiavellian individuals weaponize information and manipulate harmless statements to fit their narrative. They experience joy in speaking negatively about others, often starting vicious rumors or using others to gather damaging personal information. Extreme caution is advised when speaking to them.
While ambition is generally admirable, Machiavellians are so competitive they will compromise values and hurt others to achieve their goals. They are primarily motivated by money, power, and winning, rather than community building, and use tactics like coercion and intimidation.
Machiavellian individuals use insincere and excessive flattery, especially towards those in power, with ulterior motives. They form weak, superficial bonds, using relationships for personal gain rather than deep friendship. They might flatter superiors but treat others poorly.
Manipulation is central to a Machiavellian's nature, manifesting in various ways such as generating sympathy through deceit, turning others against someone, or gaslighting. To protect oneself, it's vital to set boundaries, build supportive relationships, and avoid entrusting them with vulnerabilities.