Machiavellism, also known as Machiavellianism, refers to the political philosophy of Niccolo Machiavelli, which emphasizes the use of cunning, deceit, and manipulation to attain power and maintain control. Synonyms for this term include manipulation, strategizing, scheming, calculating, planning, plotting, and conniving. Other words that could be considered synonyms for Machiavellism include craftiness, duplicity, cunningness, deviousness, and guile. These terms all refer to similar qualities of behavior, and can be used interchangeably when describing people or tactics that are characterized by a lack of morality or ethics and a willingness to do whatever is necessary to achieve one's goals.