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Examples Of Machiavellianism In Ted Bundy

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Machiavellianism in Ted Bundy

Ted Bundy, one of the most notorious serial killers in United States history, is driven by a Machiavellian personality. Over the span of four years, Bundy was held responsible for over thirty-five murders of young females in seven states (cite something). A person who exhibits a Machiavellian personality is calculating in order to intentionally manipulate social situations and deceive others for power and control (Mayer, 2014). In his final interview before his execution, Bundy reveals his motivations for carrying out so many ruthless murders; he states, “Murder is not about lust, and it’s not about violence. It’s about possession.” (cite academia). Ted Bundy exemplifies a Machiavellian personality through manipulation …show more content…

Bundy was capable at charming and leading his victims to believe that he had good intentions. During multiple abductions of college women, witnesses reported the perpetrator was wearing a sling or leg cast and seemed to be struggling with a briefcase. Bundy asked women to help him carry his belongings to his car, where he then assaulted them. Multiple women on dark college campuses were approached by Bundy and kidnapped through this form of manipulation (Ramsland 2013). One of the most prominent Machiavellianism social behaviors includes pretending to be hurt in order to get someone to do a favor (cite buss and Craik). In experimental settings, those who score higher on Machiavellian personality are likely to be skilled liars, telling more convincing lies, making close eye contact, and sticking to a consistent story (Exline, et al., 1970). Liz Kendall, an ex-girlfriend of Bundy recalls her experience meeting the charming killer. The two met at a bar, and Bundy nonchalantly stated he was applying to law school and planning on writing a book in order to impress her. Although this was a blatant lie, Liz believed the stranger and stated he portrayed a certain confidence and seemed to be in control of his world (Ramsland 2013). During an interview, Bundy

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