Puppeteers appear to lack generalized empathy towards other intelligent species. They are highly manipulative, and appear to feel no psychological distress when their actions cause harm to others. They perform interstellar-scale manipulation of other species, inducing and directing large scale wars in order to achieve the goal of their own safety. They do not appear to be disturbed when required to make choices that result in the deaths of billions or trillions. From what little interaction is shown between Puppeteers, it seems their lack of empathy extends to their own species. Mate selection seems to be largely status-based, with higher status mates being more desirable. The Puppeteer Nessus finds comfort in having his living space produce simulated proximity to his species: the smells, sounds, and sights of other Puppeteers. However, he appears to have little need or desire for social interaction with others of his kind.