There is an emphasis on self-enhancing values in present-day society. Empathy is shown to be declining and callousness increasing. This two-study research set out to analyze dark personality traits (Machiavellianism, narcissism, and psychopathy) and bright personality traits (emotional and cognitive empathy), and their predictive validity on universal value types. Using a sample of Swedes and Americans (N = 385), the Dark Triad (SD3) correlated significantly with all value types (Schwartz’s 10 values), forming a sinusoid pattern which aligned with the circumplex value model. Machiavellianism and narcissism were positively associated with the self-enhancing values Achievement and Power, while psychopathy was positively associated with the self-enhancing values Hedonism and Power. Using a middle-aged US sample, cognitive and emotional empathy (IRI) were positively related to the selftranscending values of Universalism and Benevolence and negatively with the self-enhancement values of Achievement and Power.

In addition, both the dark and bright personality traits explained significant variance over the basic Big Five traits in universal values. Given the complex of values accounted for, we argue that these results account for a system of self-enhancing “dark values” and self-transcending “bright values”. This research highlights that certain universal values of individual and societal relevance can be predicted by personality traits.