Psychology of Persuasion

In the age of social networks social manipulation has become a pervasive and disturbing phenomenon. This paper investigates the psychological and social mechanisms underlying social persuasion and manipulation. Fundamental theories such as Bandura's social learning theory Festinger's cognitive dissonance theory and Foucault's theory of power and knowledge are explored. In addition the power of social influence cognitive biases and the role of technology in manipulation are discussed. Through a critical and comprehensive analysis it aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the implications of social manipulation in various contexts.