Re: virus: Re: Manipulation 101 Lesson 10

Tim Rhodes (proftim@speakeasy.org)
Sun, 23 Feb 1997 13:20:07 -0800 (PST)


On 23 Feb 1997, David Rosdeitcher wrote:

> Because these viruses are being spread on this mailing list, it is most
> effective to use live examples from the discussions in this list since
> they are so relevant. Discussing these manipulations as if it were an
> academic subject from which we are detached, would not have the same
> impact. To demonstrate this, I am going to present Lesson #10 in 2
> different forms: The first one, "Example A", will be presented with a
> real live manipulation example from this list. "Example B" will contain
> an academic type discussion by 2 fictional characters.
>
> Manipulation 101 Lesson #10 Manipulation by Using Notions Of "Higher
> Authority". Example A: Using Live Examples
> A great technique to manipulate people is by suggesting to them that there
> are higher powers than their own mind that can control their thoughts and
> everyone else's. Imply that you have access to those higher powers. This will
> induce in them a sense of fear and respect for you, as their latent tendencies
> to follow and obey external authority are exploited to your advantage. Here is
> an example:
>
> >A dangerous notion. The Nazis didn't misunderstand anything. They were
> >schooled in the Four Principles, which I never repeat, because anyone
> >who knows them can easily create a runaway movement. But no
> >misunderstanding is needed, just the right mix of memes.
>
> Here is Example B, as 2 fictional characters have an academic discussion
> about the role of higher authority in manipulation of others.
> Professor Tim: People have tendencies to obey authority. It seems like
> some people can manipulate others by playing to role of authority.
> Professor Tad: Yeah, it is like most people will gladly surrender to
> another who claims to be all-knowing or all-powerful. I can see this
> throughout history.
> Professor Tim: Like the way the Church gains power by claiming to have
> connections with an almighty God.
> Professor Tad: Yes, even throughout
> the 20th century. The Nazis claimed to gain power by saying they had an
> occult knowledge called "The Four Principles" and today people are
> manipulated with various scientific-sounding popular beliefs in higher
> power, ranging from the Gaia Hypothesis to Chaos Theory.
>
> Which style was more effective--Live-Action Mode 'A', or Academic Mode 'B'?
> What do you think? -David Rosdeitcher
>

Honestly, David, I learned more from 'B' than 'A'.

Prof. Tim