Mastering the Art of Outthinking Tricksters with Compassion
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Understanding Tricksters: A Dual Perspective
In our society, there's a particular archetype that I refer to as the Rough Trickster (RT). These individuals are astute manipulators who often disregard social norms and principles of fair play. While they may engage in deceit and exploitation, they can also display unexpected empathy and compassion.
When operating from a darker vantage point, RTs tend to prey on various vulnerable individuals, often targeting those who seem like easy targets. These characteristics are inherently human and not strictly negative or positive; they simply exist. The RT exploits these intrinsic traits for their own gain.
The essence of all tricksters, whether noble or rogue, lies in their ability to influence others by tapping into what is hardwired in human neurobiology.
Noble Tricksters (NTs) use these traits constructively, while RTs manipulate them to gain power and siphon energy, often referred to as "Qi," from their victims. Common traits that RTs exploit include vanity, greed, dishonesty, lust, and opportunism.
Before delving deeper, take a moment to explore this insightful Medium story that sets the stage for our discussion on Noble Tricksters.
Recognizing Vulnerabilities: Who Falls for Tricksters?
Every individual possesses these characteristics to some degree, making it challenging to predict who might fall prey to an analog rogue trickster. Typically, the common denominator among victims is their misplaced trust in the RT. Victims often display an excessive level of greed, gullibility, or a self-sacrificing desire to help others.
It is uncommon for an analog rogue trickster to successfully manipulate an NT. NTs are inherently skeptical, recognizing that all humans are capable of deception at some point. Given enough time, even those with the best intentions may falter. NTs focus on the present moment with compassion, devoid of regrets about the past or anxieties about the future. This emotional clarity often baffles RTs.
Thus, while RTs possess the same skills as NTs, they lack empathy. The chaos and havoc they create stem from an inability to control their emotions or think rationally, rendering them powerless in the presence of NTs.
Digital Tricksters: The New Frontier
In the online realm, rogue tricksters adopt a different form, often labeled as Digital Rogue Tricksters (DRTs) or "troll tricksters." These individuals may manifest as con artists, manipulators, or those who wear trusted personas, such as clergy. The DRT is devoid of ethical considerations and primarily seeks to manipulate others for personal gain.
There exists a fine line between the thought patterns of tricksters and conditions like psychopathy, Machiavellianism, and narcissism. Regardless of their nature, all tricksters have a remarkable ability to navigate between different personas. Their inner lives are often grandiose and self-indulgent. However, while rogue tricksters may be trapped in a cycle of desperation, NTs are characterized by ethics, compassion, and emotional balance.
Common Types of Tricksters
Let’s review some prevalent trickster archetypes:
- Noble Tricksters (NTs): These individuals are driven to utilize their trickster abilities for the benefit of others.
- Stupid Tricksters: They may have good intentions but are often ruled by emotion, seeking immediate gratification. Lacking the wisdom and emotional stability of NTs, they can be detrimental to both themselves and those around them. NTs are adept at identifying and avoiding them, as the saying goes, "You can't outsmart someone who isn't thinking."
- Postmodern Tricksters: These tricksters can be either noble or malevolent, lacking a sense of universal truth. Rogue postmodern tricksters often engage in criminal activities or deception for personal gain, sometimes causing difficulty for others just for enjoyment. The noble counterpart, however, seeks to uplift others rather than serve their own interests.
For a deeper exploration of the postmodern rogue trickster, stay tuned for the next chapter.
Lewis Harrison: A Beacon of Insight
Author Lewis Harrison is a futurist and professional forecaster, serving as the Executive Director of the International Association of Healing Professionals. This philanthropic organization offers free life lessons, mental health resources, and self-improvement programs globally.
As a best-selling author and former radio host, Lewis has developed a game theory-based Life Strategies Playbook, which he shares at no cost. His innovative approach to Applied Gamer-Thinking has garnered significant attention.
"I invite you to reach out. My goal is to help you overcome challenges by clarifying your intentions and enhancing your effectiveness, productivity, and self-awareness."