Machiavellianism

Manipulation is a key feature of Machiavellianism, where individuals use deceit and psychological tactics to control and influence others to achieve their ends.

• Psychological Tactics: Using fear, guilt, and flattery to influence others’ decisions.
• Deceit: Lying and creating false appearances to mislead others and gain an advantage.
• Exploitation: Taking advantage of others’ weaknesses and vulnerabilities to achieve personal goals.

Pragmatism in Machiavellianism refers to a focus on outcomes rather than on moral or ethical principles. Actions are judged by their effectiveness in achieving goals, not by their adherence to conventional morality.

• Ends Justify the Means: The belief that any action is acceptable if it leads to the desired result.
• Flexibility: Adapting one’s approach as circumstances change, without being bound by principles.
• Calculative Reasoning: Carefully weighing options and choosing the most effective strategy, regardless of moral implications.

Power dynamics in "Othello" are central to the unfolding of the plot, with characters like Iago manipulating others to gain power and control over their actions and decisions.

• Hierarchical Manipulation: Using one’s position within a social hierarchy to exert influence over others.
• Subversion of Authority: Undermining those in power through deceit and strategic manipulation.
• Control of Information: Controlling the flow of information to manipulate others’ perceptions and actions.