Group Composition and Machiavellianism

Abstract

Christie's model of Machiavellianism is generally precise within the parameters it uses but it leaves out certain factors included in this study. Using the Mach IV and Mach V scales subjects were classified according to their mach level and asked to play in a Parcheesi-type board game. Results showed that the effects of Machiavellianism in bargaining are stronger than those of equity, that the composition of the group affects the winnings of high- and low-machs, and that Machiavellianism as a whole is more predictive of game winnings than either of its two main components, tactics or cynicism. Over-all, the Christie model is still very suitable and the present findings can make it more general.