Manipulation
Manipulation is the skillful handling, control, or influence of something or someone—ranging from physical objects to people and systems. The term spans contexts from neutral technique to ethically fraught coercion, making it both practically useful and deeply important to understand critically.
Meanings
- Manipulation (physical) — The skillful use of hands or tools to handle, shape, or control objects and materials.
- Manipulation (social) — The practice of influencing or controlling others' thoughts, emotions, or actions, often through deception or psychological tactics.
- Manipulation (data) — Processing, transforming, or analyzing information to extract meaning or test hypotheses.
- Manipulation (politics) — Steering public opinion, policy decisions, or institutional behavior through selective information or coercive means.
Related
Psychology, Influence, Persuasion, Deception, Agency, Ethics