Ability to Predict a Players Skill based on Intelligence.

[sherbert]

I'll agree with you on some of your points. I was hasty to use the word many - of the winning players I know it would only apply to a small percentage. But, I think it is a trait that emerges frequently at a table, whether it is from winners or less good players. In that sense, I think I was, on reflection, wrong in ascribing it as a trait that goes with winning players. However all of them tend to be ruthless, and morally indifferent. (That's somewhat different from emotionally indifferent although I think the two are linked). If you think tennis and poker, or tennis and chess are comparable in this sense, I think you have a remarkably rose tinted view. Poker, from what I've seen - and I have plenty of experience - brings out the worst traits in people. Tennis, when played socially, quite the opposite. Of course I'm talking about casino poker here; it's different online. Although even there you come across some truly appalling lines in chat.

Often times poker isn't a particularly pleasant game - doesn't mean you can't enjoy it, but it's very different from most other games.