The Great Simplification with Nate Hagens

The Light Triad | Frankly 85

Feb 14, 2025

The discussion dives deep into the contrasting Light and Dark Triad personality traits influencing modern society. It highlights the normalization of narcissism and manipulation, while advocating for the nurturing of altruistic qualities. Social media's role in amplifying deceit is critically examined. A fascinating look at how community support can uplift the Light Triad in a world tilted towards self-serving behavior raises important questions. Can one truly change from dark tendencies, or is it a hardwired inevitability?

15:34

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Quick takeaways

The podcast highlights the normalization of Dark Triad traits in society, contrasting them with the potential virtues of the Light Triad that advocate for interconnectedness and respect for all beings.

It emphasizes the influence of social media on the amplification of manipulative behaviors, suggesting that fostering smaller, supportive groups is crucial for nurturing light triad traits in a disconnected digital age.

Deep dives

Understanding the Dark and Light Triads

The podcast delves into the concepts of the dark triad and light triad in personality psychology. The dark triad includes traits of narcissism, sociopathy, and Machiavellian behavior, often leading to destructive social interactions. In contrast, the light triad comprises sustainable stewardship, interconnectedness, and respect for all beings, showcasing positive human traits. The speaker emphasizes that while the light triad encapsulates valuable beliefs, they may not always compete effectively against the more powerful and ingrained dark triad traits in human behavior.

Exploring the Light and Dark Triads of Human Behavior

16min

(Recorded February 12th, 2025)

Deception and self-interest seem to be increasingly prevalent in our modern cultural reality. From the highest levels of power to the cultural metrics of what is considered ‘success’ for individual humans: the Dark Triad traits of Narcissism, Sociopathy, and Machiavellianism have become disturbingly normalized. But is there an antidote? Could an opposing “Light Triad” of traits - if nurtured and protected - offer a path toward a society in service of life rather than power?

In this Frankly, Nate explores the concept of Light Triad personalities and their struggle against the Dark Triad forces shaping our social, economic, and ecological landscape. He examines how social media amplifies manipulation, why individual goodness is often outmatched by structural incentives, and whether strong, cooperative groups might hold the key to shifting the balance. Importantly, he questions whether the Light Triad can ever truly compete - or if it must evolve new strategies to stand a chance in service of life.

How many people does it take to shield a Light Triad individual from Dark Triad manipulation? Will these competing traits become more or less dominant as we move into the downslope of the Carbon Pulse? And can someone with a Dark Triad personality ever truly change, or are they hardwired for self-interest?

Show Notes and More

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