Keywords
cognitive reflection
dark tetrad
generosity
light tetrad
How to Cite
Abstract
This article reviews research on two contrasting groups of personality traits – from the so-called light triad (including faith in humanity, humanism, and Kantianism) to the so-called Dark Tetrad (including Machiavellianism, narcissism, psychopathy, and sadistic tendencies). The light triad encompasses empathy, trust, and prosocial attitudes, whereas the Dark Tetrad describes individuals who are manipulative, antagonistic, and lacking in empathy. The article also examines the role of cognitive reflection and generosity in shaping prosocial decisions and moral judgments. The review includes both empirical (quantitative and qualitative) studies and key theoretical works. It cites and discusses findings from correlational and experimental psychological research, including behavioral economic games (considering the role of cognitive reflection) and population-level analyses (e.g., profiling voluntary blood donors and examining altruism in the context of volunteering). The relationships between light triad and Dark Tetrad traits and prosocial behaviors (generosity, altruism) are analyzed, along with aspects of individuals’ health (e.g., health-promoting habits). The article describes definitions of these constructs and research findings indicating, among other things, that individuals with light triad traits exhibit greater empathy, altruism, and life satisfaction, whereas those with Dark Tetrad traits are characterized by a lack of empathy and a tendency toward aggressive or manipulative behaviors. The findings also demonstrate a bidirectional influence of cognitive reflection: when helping others entails personal cost, reflective thinkers behave more selfishly than impulsive ones; however, when altruism carries no personal loss, reflective individuals are more generous and helpful. A study of voluntary blood donors further shows that generosity is strongly correlated with both cognitive and emotional empathy, as well as with a health-promoting lifestyle. The review indicates that the light triad and its associated values (empathy, trust, altruism) promote mental health, better social relationships, and greater life satisfaction. In turn, the dominance of Dark Tetrad traits is associated with antisocial behaviors, social isolation, and reduced psychosocial well-being. Promoting empathy and generosity can benefit individuals and society, whereas strong “dark” traits are linked to negative psychosocial consequences. The article discusses key conclusions and practical implications (e.g., for parenting and public health) and offers suggested directions for future research on the bright and dark aspects of human personality.
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