Since you were born, your mind has been flooded with signals to shape your thinking and behavior. The media, systems, institutions, and culture you live within have formed —and are still forming— your ideas1. Consider the enormous effects of family, friends, and society. These forces are often intentional. No one is immune.

You are programmed. First by biology, then by society.

You have been shaped by forces outside of your control

We are steered subtly and overtly towards action, or inaction. A simple smile manipulates us into feeling good. Shame makes us feel bad. An insult to someone we admire sparks rage. Why?

These are small manipulations. Larger ones come from stories told by those we trust. Charisma, repetition, allegiance, and belonging shape our beliefs. The world exists according to the stories our group believes— and we feel pressure to believe them too. We want to be liked. We don’t want to change our minds. We want to avoid conflict. Humans survive and thrive aligning with others. For most, it’s uncomfortable to oppose your group.

I chose the term manipulation deliberately— it’s a powerful word, and I want you to take it seriously. Think deeply about all the small and large ways your mind and actions are influenced. It’s absolutely diabolical.

Of course, not all manipulation is bad. Often it serves you, or society. Anti-smoking propaganda saved many from suffering and death caused by pro-smoking propaganda funded by the tobacco industry. Influencers and ads promote healthy habits and useful products, but also dangerous ideas and things we don’t need. Influence is always powerful.

If free will exists, then you’re not entirely shaped by genes or society2. But you must believe in free will and your agency to use it. Only then can you take deliberate steps to direct your life.

Ask yourself:

  • What are my goals and desires?
  • What are my motivations?
  • Why do I believe what I do?
  • What evidence supports and validates my beliefs?
  • Could things be explained more simply?

Study history. Explore how other cultures think or feel. Read widely and gather ideas. Think critically. Seek unfamiliar situations. Expand your perspective.

A broader view sharpens discernment of truth.

The time and place of your birth shaped much of who you are. Unfortunately, you aren’t in control of all your thoughts— perhaps few. Forces exist which are dedicated to shaping our world. Increasingly, they can predict and steer your desires before you are aware of them.

Influence is foundational. Be vigilant. Be aware. Take care.


  1. For this discussion, let’s set aside biological factors like DNA/genetics ↩︎

  2. Genetics and society have likely shaped you much more than you realize ↩︎