What’s the difference between manipulation and influence?
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Influence is more akin to persuasion, in that the person being influenced is aware that it’s happening and the topic/subject at hand is up for debate, so to speak. In another vain, it can be like inspiration, in that a person finds something they really like and that influences how they talk, act, or create.
Manipulation is more nefarious and deceptive, in that whoever’s being manipulated is not aware of it, and they likely would otherwise not naturally do or say whatever it is they were manipulated into doing or saying. The manipulator often has ulterior motives or a hidden agenda. A lot of times this involves lying or presenting skewed information.
Manipulation can have another context too, which is more akin to “taking advantage of” or “exploiting”, which can happen in video games, high pressure situations, or instances that call for being innovative. This is more like using things unconventionally to achieve a desired outcome, often because of having vast knowledge of the subject at hand.
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