Aleister Crowley: personality/temperament profile

 

Personality Analysis of Aleister Crowley (1875–1947), born Edward Alexander Crowley

Below, I'll analyze Aleister Crowley (1875–1947), born Edward Alexander Crowley. I'll follow a specified process step by step: (1) gathering information on his traits and characteristics (including flaws, vices, mental/medical/physical/legal problems), (2) gathering information on the MMPI test and its scales, and (3) estimating which MMPI scales he would likely score high on and low on, based on historical and biographical accounts. This is an interpretive analysis grounded in publicly available biographical details about Crowley—it's not a clinical diagnosis, as the MMPI is a psychological assessment tool typically administered to living individuals. Crowley never took the MMPI (which was developed in the 1940s, near the end of his life), so this is a hypothetical projection based on his documented life and behaviors.

Step 1: Gathering Information on Traits and Characteristics

Aleister Crowley was a highly influential and controversial figure in occultism, known as "The Great Beast 666" or "The Wickedest Man in the World" (a moniker from tabloid headlines). He was an English occultist, ceremonial magician, poet, novelist, painter, mountaineer, and founder of the religion/philosophy of Thelema, which emphasized individual will ("Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law"). Drawing from biographies (e.g., The Eye in the Triangle by Israel Regardie, Do What Thou Wilt by Lawrence Sutin, and Crowley's own writings like The Book of the Law), here's a summary of his key traits, characteristics, and issues:

Positive Traits and Strengths: Highly intelligent, creative, and charismatic; a prolific writer and artist with a sharp wit and encyclopedic knowledge of mysticism, religion, and esotericism. Adventurous and bold (e.g., he was an accomplished mountaineer, attempting dangerous climbs like K2). Charismatic leader who attracted followers and founded organizations like the A∴A∴ and Ordo Templi Orientis (OTO). Innovative in blending Eastern and Western occult traditions. Extroverted and socially engaging, often hosting salons and rituals.

Flaws and Vices: Extreme egotism and narcissism—he proclaimed himself a prophet and the harbinger of a new aeon (Æon of Horus), often exaggerating his importance. Hedonistic and impulsive, engaging in excessive drug use (e.g., heroin, cocaine, opium) and sexual experimentation, including bisexuality, polyamory, and "sex magick" rituals that involved orgies and taboo acts. Manipulative and exploitative in relationships, with a history of abandoning partners and using people for his ends. Rebellious and antisocial, defying societal norms, laws, and conventions (e.g., he was expelled from the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn). Prone to grandiosity, delusions of grandeur, and provocative behavior to shock others.

Mental Problems: Likely exhibited traits of narcissistic personality disorder (grandiosity, need for admiration, lack of empathy). Possible schizotypal or eccentric traits due to his immersion in occult delusions, hallucinations (possibly drug-induced), and belief in supernatural entities (e.g., communicating with "Aiwass," a spirit he claimed dictated The Book of the Law). He experienced periods of paranoia, suspecting enemies and conspiracies against him. Drug addiction led to cycles of mania and erratic behavior, with some biographers suggesting bipolar-like mood swings (hypomanic highs and depressive lows, though he was more often in high-energy states). He had a history of self-destructive impulsivity.

Medical Problems: Chronic asthma from childhood, exacerbated by his mountaineering and drug use. Severe drug addiction (heroin prescribed for asthma but abused, leading to dependency). Sexually transmitted infections (e.g., gonorrhea) from promiscuity. In later life, he suffered from bronchitis, heart issues, and general physical decline due to addiction and poor health habits.

Physical Problems: Beyond asthma and addiction-related decline, he had injuries from mountaineering accidents (e.g., falls and exposure). By his 60s, he was frail, underweight, and reliant on drugs, which worsened his respiratory and cardiovascular health.

Legal Problems: Involved in several libel lawsuits (e.g., sued newspapers for defamation after being called a Satanist or cannibal; he often lost, bankrupting himself). Accused of immorality and indecency (e.g., his Abbey of Thelema in Sicily was shut down amid scandals involving drugs, sex, and a follower's death). Faced expulsion from countries like Italy (under Mussolini) and France due to his activities. Financial troubles from failed ventures and lawsuits led to bankruptcy in 1935. No major criminal convictions, but his lifestyle invited constant legal scrutiny.

Overall, Crowley was a complex, larger-than-life figure whose life was marked by brilliance overshadowed by self-sabotage, controversy, and excess. His behaviors often alienated others, leading to isolation in his later years.

Step 2: Gathering Information on the MMPI Test and Its Scales

The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) is a standardized psychometric test developed in the 1940s (original version) and updated over time (e.g., MMPI-2 in 1989, MMPI-2-RF). It's used to assess personality traits, psychopathology, and emotional functioning, primarily in clinical settings for diagnosing mental health issues. The test consists of hundreds of true/false questions, scored on various scales. Results are interpreted via T-scores (mean of 50, standard deviation of 10; scores above 65 indicate clinical elevation).

The MMPI has two main types of scales:

Validity Scales: These detect response biases, such as lying, exaggeration, or defensiveness. Key ones include:

L (Lie): High scores indicate denial of flaws or overly virtuous responses.

F (Infrequency): High scores suggest unusual or exaggerated responses (e.g., faking bad or severe pathology).

K (Correction): High scores indicate defensiveness; low scores suggest openness or distress.

Others like VRIN (Variable Response Inconsistency) and TRIN (True Response Inconsistency) in newer versions check for random or inconsistent answering.

Clinical Scales: These measure personality and psychopathology dimensions (numbered 1–0 in the original MMPI; restructured in later versions). The core 10 clinical scales are:

Hypochondriasis (Hs): Preoccupation with health and bodily complaints.

Depression (D): Sadness, hopelessness, low energy.

Hysteria (Hy): Emotional reactivity, denial of problems, somatic symptoms under stress.

Psychopathic Deviate (Pd): Rebelliousness, impulsivity, antisocial behavior, disregard for norms.

Masculinity-Femininity (Mf): Gender role nonconformity (high in men indicates femininity/effeminacy; interpretations vary by era and version).

Paranoia (Pa): Suspiciousness, grandiosity, feelings of persecution.

Psychasthenia (Pt): Anxiety, obsessions, compulsions, self-doubt (similar to OCD/anxiety disorders).

Schizophrenia (Sc): Eccentric thinking, social alienation, bizarre experiences, thought disorder.

Hypomania (Ma): Elevated mood, impulsivity, high energy, grandiosity.

Social Introversion (Si): Shyness, withdrawal, discomfort in social situations.

Scores are interpreted in profiles (e.g., "code types" like 4-9 for impulsive/antisocial). High scores (T > 65) suggest pathology; low scores (T < 40) indicate the opposite traits.

Step 3: Estimated MMPI Scales Crowley Would Score High On and Low On

Based on Crowley's documented traits, behaviors, and life history, I've projected hypothetical MMPI scores. This draws from his rebelliousness, grandiosity, eccentricity, and hedonism (aligning with high Pd, Ma, Sc, Pa) versus his extroversion and lack of introversion or hypochondriasis (low Si, Hs). I'd expect an overall elevated profile indicating personality disorder traits, possibly with validity issues (e.g., high F due to exaggeration, low K due to lack of defensiveness). Assumptions are based on the original MMPI scales for historical context.

Scales He Would Likely Score High On (T > 65, indicating elevation):

Psychopathic Deviate (Pd): High—Crowley's rebellious defiance of societal norms, impulsivity, manipulative relationships, and antisocial behaviors (e.g., drug abuse, sexual excess, legal troubles) align strongly with this scale, which measures nonconformity and thrill-seeking.

Hypomania (Ma): High—His high energy, grandiosity, adventurous pursuits (mountaineering, founding religions), and manic-like episodes (fueled by drugs and ego) fit this scale's focus on elevated mood, impulsivity, and overactivity.

Schizophrenia (Sc): High—Eccentric beliefs (occult visions, spirit communications), social alienation (e.g., expulsions from groups), and bizarre experiences (hallucinations, rituals) suggest elevation here, indicating odd thinking and detachment from reality.

Paranoia (Pa): High—Suspiciousness of enemies (e.g., in occult rivalries), feelings of persecution (libel suits, exiles), and grandiose self-view as a prophet point to elevation on this scale.

Masculinity-Femininity (Mf): Potentially high (for a male)—His bisexuality, gender-nonconforming behaviors (e.g., cross-dressing in rituals), and fluid sexuality might elevate this in traditional interpretations, though modern views are more nuanced.

Validity: F (Infrequency): High—His exaggerated self-presentation and unusual beliefs could lead to infrequent responses, suggesting pathology or "faking bad" for dramatic effect.

Scales He Would Likely Score Low On (T < 40, indicating below-average traits):

Social Introversion (Si): Low—Crowley was highly extroverted, charismatic, and socially engaging (hosting rituals, leading groups), not withdrawn or shy.

Depression (D): Low—While he had lows in later life, his overall demeanor was energetic and hedonistic, not characterized by persistent hopelessness or lethargy.

Hypochondriasis (Hs): Low—Despite real health issues (asthma, addiction), he wasn't overly preoccupied with them in a complaining way; he pushed through with bravado.

Psychasthenia (Pt): Low—He showed little self-doubt or obsessive anxiety; instead, he was decisive and bold, though his rituals had compulsive elements, this scale's anxiety focus doesn't strongly fit.

Validity: L (Lie) and K (Correction): Low—Crowley was unapologetic about flaws, often boasting of vices, so he'd likely not deny problems (low L) or be defensive (low K), appearing open but distressed.

This profile (e.g., a hypothetical "8-4-9" code type: high Sc, Pd, Ma) would suggest a flamboyant, eccentric personality with antisocial and hypomanic features, possibly indicating narcissistic or schizotypal personality disorder traits. In a clinical setting, further testing would be needed. If you'd like an analysis of another person or more details, let me know!

In addition:

Based on historical accounts and biographical details, Aleister Crowley was a complex and controversial figure known for his roles as an occultist, magician, poet, novelist, painter, and mountaineer. He founded the religion of Thelema, proclaiming himself a prophet of the Æon of Horus, and lived a life marked by rebellion against societal norms, intense intellectual pursuits, drug experimentation, sexual libertinism, and a charismatic yet manipulative demeanor. His personality was characterized by high intelligence, egotism, a thirst for power and knowledge, dramatic self-presentation, and a tendency toward hedonism and controversy. He often displayed traits of narcissism, defiance, creativity, and a fascination with the esoteric, which led to both admiration and vilification during his lifetime.

                           Jungian Archetypes

Crowley's personality aligns primarily with the Magician archetype, embodying transformation, knowledge-seeking, and mastery over hidden forces, as seen in his occult practices and self-proclaimed prophetic role. Secondary archetypes include the Rebel (defying conventional morality and authority) and the Shadow (representing his darker impulses like manipulation and excess).

                                     TAROT

Since Crowley was a renowned occultist, magician, and creator of the Thoth Tarot deck, this reading will retrospectively explore his life path, influences, and enduring impact as if drawing insights for him. I've shuffled the full deck (including both Major and Minor Arcana) and randomly drawn 10 cards for a Keltic Cross spread. Remember, Tarot is interpretive and symbolic, not literal prophecy.

The 10 Cards Drawn and Their Positions:

Basis of the matter (that which brought the seeker to the reading): The Magician

Where the seeker is now: Ace of Wands

Hopes or fears: The Lovers

Present and passing: Five of Swords

Forces for or against the seeker: The High Priestess

Near future: Knight of Pentacles

How the near future will evolve: Ten of Swords

New turn of events and/or effects of others on the seeker: Queen of Cups

The person in the environment of the future: The Wheel of Fortune

Final outcome or summation: The World

Analysis and Reading:

Drawing from the Keltic Cross spread, this reading weaves together archetypal energies from the Major Arcana (representing deeper life themes) and everyday influences from the Minor Arcana, reflecting Crowley's complex journey as an occult pioneer. The spread shows a strong emphasis on transformation, creativity, and controversy, aligning with his historical role in mysticism and esotericism. We'll interpret each position in sequence, tying it to his known biography for a detailed, informative perspective, while considering the context from the documents.

The foundation of this reading, The Magician in the first position, symbolizes mastery over the elements and the power of will—much like Crowley's self-reinvention from Edward Alexander to Aleister, channeling his early religious upbringing into occult innovation. This card suggests that what drew Crowley to his path was a profound desire to manifest ideas into reality, perhaps stemming from his birth in 1875 into a strict Plymouth Brethren family, which fueled his rebellion and magical pursuits.

Currently, the Ace of Wands in the second position indicates a spark of creative energy and new beginnings, representing where Crowley stood at key points in his life—full of passion for exploration, such as his mountaineering adventures and founding of the A∴A∴ order. It points to his innovative spirit, like developing the Thoth Tarot, but warns of potential burnout if not directed wisely.

Hopes or fears are embodied by The Lovers in the third position, highlighting themes of union, choices, and duality. For Crowley, this could reflect his aspirations for spiritual harmony through practices like Thelema ("Do what thou wilt"), but also fears of relational conflicts, as seen in his tumultuous marriages and partnerships documented in biographical texts.

The present and passing, shown by the Five of Swords, speaks to conflict, defeat, and the need to walk away from battles. This mirrors Crowley's real-life scandals, such as the public backlash against his "wickedest man in the world" reputation in the 1920s, which were transient but shaped his isolation. It's a reminder that while controversies defined his era, they are fading influences.

Forces for or against him appear as The High Priestess in the fifth position, an archetypal figure of intuition, mystery, and hidden knowledge—strongly supportive in Crowley's case, as she aligns with his deep dives into Egyptian mysticism and the Book of the Law, which he claimed was dictated by a higher entity. However, if reversed in energy, she could represent secretive forces working against him, like societal rejection of his esoteric works.

Looking to the near future, the Knight of Pentacles suggests steady, methodical progress, akin to Crowley's disciplined approach to writing and ritual in his later years, including his time in Cefalù, Italy, establishing the Abbey of Thelema. This card implies reliability in pursuing goals, but a risk of stubbornness.

How this near future evolves is indicated by the Ten of Swords, a card of rock bottom and painful endings, evolving into renewal. In Crowley's context, this evokes his struggles with addiction, poverty, and health decline in the 1940s, leading to his death in 1947, but also the cathartic release that allowed his ideas to endure posthumously.

A new turn of events or effects of others comes via the Queen of Cups, representing emotional depth, intuition, and influence from compassionate figures. This could symbolize the women in Crowley's life, like Leah Hirsig or Rose Edith Kelly, who played pivotal roles in his magical workings, or the broader impact of admirers who preserved his legacy after his passing.

The person in the environment of the future is The Wheel of Fortune, denoting cycles of change and destiny. For Crowley, this positions him as a transformative force in occult history, with his influence cycling through ups and downs— from obscurity to modern revival in esoteric communities.

Finally, the outcome in the tenth position is The World, signifying completion, achievement, and integration. This sums up Crowley's life as a fulfilled cycle: despite controversies, he achieved a lasting legacy in Tarot, Thelema, and mysticism, influencing generations beyond his death in 1947. It suggests ultimate success in his quest for enlightenment, with his works like the Thoth deck continuing to inspire.

Overall, this spread paints Crowley as a dynamic figure whose life was marked by bold creation (Wands and Magician energies), relational complexities (Lovers and Cups), and profound shifts (Tower-like transformations via Death and Swords cards, though not directly drawn). The mix of Major Arcana highlights his archetypal impact, while Minor cards ground it in earthly struggles. 

                    Myers-Briggs 4-Letter Type

Crowley fits the ENTP (Extraverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Perceiving) type, known as the "Debater" or "Visionary." This reflects his innovative ideas, charisma in social and intellectual debates, logical yet unconventional thinking, and adaptable, thrill-seeking lifestyle.

                      Myers-Briggs 2-Letter Type

Within the Myers-Briggs framework, he aligns with the NT (Intuitive Thinking) temperament, often called the "Rational," emphasizing strategic intellect, innovation, and independence from norms.

                              Enneagram Type

Crowley's core type is Enneagram 8w7 (The Challenger with an Adventurer wing), driven by a need for control, intensity, and sensory experiences, with a focus on power and rebellion. Possible tritype: 8-5-3 (Challenger-Thinker-Achiever), highlighting his intellectual depth, self-promotion, and assertiveness.

               New Personality Self-Portrait Styles

Crowley's styles include 

self-confident (strong belief in his own genius and prophetic destiny), 

dramatic (theatrical self-presentation and love of scandal), 

adventurous (mountaineering, drug use, and exploratory sexuality), 

idiosyncratic (eccentric beliefs and rejection of mainstream society), 

mercurial (volatile moods and impulsive behaviors), and 

aggressive (confrontational and power-seeking tendencies). 

Socially awkward elements are present in his often alienating intensity and disregard for social graces.

Temperament Type or Blend (4-Temperament Theory)

Crowley exhibits a blend of Choleric (dominant, ambitious, and leader-oriented) and Sanguine (charismatic, pleasure-seeking, and expressive) temperaments, with choleric traits being primary, driving his forceful pursuit of occult mastery and influence.

                     Possible Personality Disorders

Potential disorders include Narcissistic Personality Disorder (grandiose self-view, need for admiration, and exploitative relationships) and 

Antisocial Personality Disorder (disregard for others' rights, impulsivity, and deceitfulness), evidenced by his manipulative behaviors, legal troubles, and hedonistic excesses. 

Histrionic traits (attention-seeking and dramatic expression) may also apply, though not at a full disorder level.

                       Hierarchy of Basic Desires

Power/Control (dominating others and esoteric knowledge).

Knowledge/Understanding (pursuit of occult wisdom).

Pleasure/Hedonism (drugs, sex, and sensory experiences).

Independence/Autonomy (rebellion against norms).

Achievement/Recognition (founding Thelema and self-promotion).

                     Hierarchy of Basic Values

Individualism (personal will as supreme, per "Do what thou wilt").

Exploration (of the mystical and forbidden).

Innovation (creating new spiritual paradigms).

Intensity (embracing extremes in life).

Legacy (influencing future generations through his works).

      Hierarchy of Basic Ideals (Not Desires)

Self-Realization (achieving one's true will).

Transcendence (rising above mundane existence via magic).

Freedom (from societal and moral constraints).

Enlightenment (spiritual awakening for humanity).

Harmony with the Universe (alignment with cosmic forces). 

               Character Weaknesses or Flaws

Key flaws include extreme egotism leading to isolation, impulsivity causing self-destructive behaviors (e.g., addiction), manipulativeness in relationships, a lack of empathy, and a propensity for controversy that alienated allies. He also struggled with financial irresponsibility and an inability to sustain long-term commitments.

          Possible Neurotic Defense Mechanisms

Denial: Refusing to acknowledge the negative impacts of his drug use and scandals.

Projection: Attributing his own flaws (e.g., immorality) to critics or society.

Rationalization: Justifying exploitative actions as part of spiritual enlightenment.

Reaction Formation: Publicly embracing excess to mask underlying insecurities.

Sublimation: Channeling aggressive impulses into creative and occult works.

                      Possible Trance States

Crowley frequently entered altered states through meditation, rituals, and psychedelics, akin to hypnagogic trances (borderline sleep states for visions) and ecstatic trances (intense mystical experiences during ceremonies). He described "astral projections" as dissociative trances for spiritual exploration.

                 Big Five Personality Dimensions

Openness to Experience: Very High (creative, adventurous, open to unconventional ideas).

Conscientiousness: Low (impulsive, disorganized in personal affairs).

Extraversion: High (charismatic, socially engaging).

Agreeableness: Low (confrontational, self-centered).

Neuroticism: Moderate-High (emotional volatility under stress).

              Main NLP Meta-Programs (Referring to The Sourcebook of Magic)

Based on NLP frameworks, Crowley's meta-programs include: 

Toward (motivated by goals like power and enlightenment rather than avoidance),

 Options (preference for multiple possibilities in occult practices), 

External Reference (seeking validation through followers and notoriety), 

Mismatch (focusing on differences and rebellion against norms), 

Global (big-picture thinking in philosophy), and

 Active (proactive in initiating rituals and adventures).