True enough lol. I grew up kind of socially isolated (in a fairly strict sect of Christianity) so I found the book very helpful. It has had a significant impact on my life because it laid foundations for me that my parents really should have lol.

IMO manipulation is more about intent than ability. Any socially-capable person could manipulate others, but it’s not manipulation unless you’re trying to deceive them.

I can convince people to do what I want fairly easily, but I don’t hide it usually. I just make it so that our motivations line up.