Machiavellianism is a political theory or view that advocates the use of any means necessary to maintain political power. Machiavellianism presents a pessimistic view of human nature and encourages unethical and opportunistic ways to manipulate a nation’s population.
The theory or philosophy based on the beliefs of Niccolò di Bernardo dei Machiavelli (1469-1527). Machiavelli was an Italian politician, diplomat, humanist, playwright, poet and philosopher. Many call him “the father of political science”.
Machiavelli was a senior official in the Florentine Republic for several years. He was in charge of military and diplomatic affairs. From 1498 to 1512, he was the second prime minister of the Republic of Florence.
The following excerpt is from the book “The Prince” by Machiavelli:
“Whoever wishes to establish a state and enact laws, must begin by assuming that all men are evil and are always ready to manifest their evil nature. »
Machiavellianism in modern psychology
Machiavellianism is also a personality trait in modern psychology. A Machiavellian has a style of interpersonal deception. He or she lacks empathy and despises morality. Individuals focus on self-interest and self-interest.
“Machiavellianism in psychology refers to a personality trait that suggests a person is so focused on their own interests that they will manipulate, deceive, and take advantage of others to achieve their goals. ”
“Machiavellianism is one of the so-called ‘Dark Triad’ traits, the other two being narcissism and psychopathy.”
Some signs and personality traits
Here are some of the personality traits that Machiavellians typically have:
- Individuals focus only on their own interests and ambitions.
- They seem confident and charming. To advance, they will manipulate and exploit others.
- They are often unaware of the consequences of their actions and behaviour.
- If necessary, they will lie, deceive, and deceive.
- Power and money are more important than relationships.
- They tend to use flattery often. A complete lack of values or principles.
- They have a cynical view of morality and kindness.
- Empathy is missing or completely absent.
- To achieve their goals, they are capable of harming others or harming them.
- Due to their calculating nature, they can be extremely patient.
- Most Machiavellians have difficulty identifying their own emotions.
- Some people are difficult to get to know and seem aloof.
Machiavellianism at work
According to Wikipedia:
“Machiavellianism in the workplace refers to a personality trait where individuals behave in a cold and duplicitous manner setting.”
In 2010, a study by a group of researchers – Revisiting Machiavelli: A Three-Dimensional Model of Machiavellianism in the Workplace – was published in the Journal of Applied Social Psychology.
The authors propose a new model of Machiavellianism based on organizational frameworks. It includes three elements:
- Maintain power.
- Harsh management tactics.
- manipulative behavior.
High Machiavellian people tend to lie more and are less likely to give honest answers in interviews. They are also skillful liars. In many cases, they consider it right to lie in interviews.
A good boss must harness the resources and talents to support and bring out the best in the people they manage. People who grew up in Machiavellianism do not have the qualities to do so.
In politics, using tricks and lies through Machiavellian manipulation is considered poor performance.
