Machiavellians

Machiavellians refers to individuals, or a group of people, who are characterized by cunning, duplicity, and a ruthless pursuit of power, often prioritizing pragmatic outcomes over ethical considerations. They adhere to the principles attributed to Niccolò Machiavelli, author of "The Prince", which advocates for using deception, manipulation, and even violence when necessary to achieve and maintain political authority. Machiavellians tend to be skeptical of moral constraints and believe the ends justify the means, focusing on self-interest and strategic maneuvering. This often involves exploiting vulnerabilities and forming alliances based on mutual benefit rather than genuine trust or loyalty. Their primary goal is often to dominate or gain a strategic advantage in any given environment.

Machiavellians meaning with examples

• The boardroom was filled with Machiavellians, each vying for the CEO position. They were quick to exploit weaknesses in their rivals' strategies, and form and dissolve alliances based on immediate advantage, showcasing a distinct lack of scruples in their ambition. Only the most cunning would ultimately prevail.
• In the cutthroat world of politics, Machiavellians are not uncommon. They skillfully employ disinformation campaigns and leverage scandals for their own benefit. Public image is strategically crafted, and personal relationships are viewed with extreme caution, with promises treated as fluid based on the needs of the moment.
• The novel depicted a society overrun by Machiavellians, where citizens readily betrayed each other. The protagonist was forced to navigate this treacherous landscape, relying on their own cunning and developing moral resilience to survive the pervasive backstabbing and manipulation.
• The military strategists, considered Machiavellians, were infamous for their use of psychological warfare. They were master manipulators of information, deploying false flag operations, and were prepared to sacrifice both assets and individuals if it would achieve victory. This demonstrated a brutal pragmatism.