Denver Philosophy Meetup

Sept. 7th topic: When does influence become manipulation, and who decides?

Influence is necessary for teaching, leadership, marketing, and social change. Manipulation suggests deception, coercion, or exploitation. But the line between them is rarely clear.
Is the difference about intent, outcome, transparency, or power imbalance? If someone benefits from persuading you, is that manipulation? If you agree willingly, is that consent enough? Does unequal knowledge or authority automatically make influence suspect?
If we cannot clearly define the boundary, how should we evaluate leaders, media, institutions, or even our own attempts to persuade others?

Hello, Thinkers: For the first time in years, I'll be unavailable to attend. Dan Cahill will be filling in as moderator. This is a topic I've been thinking about for a long time. Hate to miss it. I value this group so much as I am sure all of you do too, Looking forward to seeing you in October.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86706047777?pwd=U1VkMTQ3OWZPMTl2ZlJLRlRubVVyQT09

Meeting ID: 867 0604 7777
Passcode: 510932

Dial in:
+1 346 248 7799 US