Intelligence și Cultura de Securitate (Jan 2022)
CONSIDERAȚII PRIVIND MIJLOACELE DE MANIPULARE PSIHOLOGICĂ UTILIZATE ÎN CADRUL CULTULUI ADNAN
Abstract
The present paper thoroughly analyzes the ever-evolving concept of psychological manipulation. Its objective is to assess the risk level of manipulation and its techniques using different actors and to establish a pattern of evolution. The problems raised by manipulation exist not only in the family environment, but also in the circle of friends and society, through mass-media and politics. The continuous technological advancement of the internet has opened new opportunities for those interested in providing fake news and distorting the truth, all while using manipulation techniques, which are described in this paper. The research method used is a qualitative one, providing a case study of a Turkish leader known for manipulating his cult members. Given the analysis of the psychological profile of a manipulator, exemplified through the case study, the paper explains the evolution of the usage of manipulative techniques, passed down to different actors. Results have shown that manipulators of the truth use different channels for spreading information, all adjusted to retain the attention of citizens, by using as bait their subjects of interest and employing powerful emotional responses, to mobilize them in forming an opinion, changing one, or act acceptably. Therefore, people have become simple objects through which the interests of manipulators can be put to action. The main factors that prevent humans from seeing manipulation are the need to belong to a social group and the need to affiliate with others. By responding favorably to the needs mentioned, they are conforming to a set of rules set by society, when in fact those rules are made by people with high social statuses, to fulfill their interests. This solution seems to be optimal for both parties, as the social or ideal identities of the people are maintained, and the interests of high-society actors are achieved. The most vulnerable spot of humans, as social beings, is the pain associated with not being accepted or being rejected by society. That is the reason why citizens are afraid to think or act differently from the group, and they accept the social norms as they are set by the group. What they fail to realize is that beyond the society, and overruling the basis on which it works, are the puppeteers, actors that have hidden interests in controlling the social movements and mindset. Nevertheless, the power of influence and manipulation on citizens is as significant as society allows it because by observing and naming manipulation, we are able to control it and develop our critical thinking.
