fourworlds

ma·nip·u·late: to change by artful or unfair means so as to serve one’s purpose. Merriam-Webster

Someone brought up the idea that the recently disclosed Botgirl Project was manipulative and self-serving. My knee-jerk reaction was to flatly deny such intentions and make light of the associated implications. After some reflection, here’s some of my current thinking:

The ability to manipulate others is an evolutionary survival mechanism. Our arsenal of “artful means” is developed and reinforced from the first time our infant smiles grab the attention of our mothers’ eyes. Throughout our lives we receive positive and negative reinforcement to act in ways that enlist others to serve our purposes  We are continously drawn subconsciously to control the actions and perceptions of others through what we reveal and hide through words, body language, tone of voice and actions.

Since manipulation seems to be hardwired into our biology, the ethical question for me is whether we try to use it consciously and with benign intent. Should we stop smiling when we meet someone because it’s partially intended to make them feel that we’re friendly? Is it necessary to share every negative thought in our heads in order to be completely transparent in our interactions? Should we only use avatars that match our RL age, gender, physical form, etc. Or if not, have a linked full-blown biography?  I don’t think so.

“Manipulative Behavior” and “Honest Communication” are two independent concepts. We can use the ideal of honesty to intentionally manipulate people through negative and emotionally charged communication. We can also refrain from expressing negative thoughts (lying by omission?) to avoid manipulative communication.

My conclusion is that manipulation is ethically neutral. For instance, it can be used by a coach to help his or her team win (selfish) while at the same time motivating athletes to improve their abilities. On the other hand, practically every effective “good cause” has used manipulative techniques to push people out of their complacency.

So I admit that I have been willfully manipulative, albeit with benign-or-better intent. I plan to continue to hone my persuasive skill and be more rigorous in questioning my intent.

For a rant on this same topic see Botgirl’s Second LIfe Diary.