Writing Manipulative Characters With Social Engineering

Make them think it was their idea.

In today’s essay, we examine 9 principles of social engineering, and apply them to our character building.

There are many different techniques and strategies that can be used to persuade others. These principles exploit cognitive biases. They are based on various psychological and social phenomena, and are leveraged not just in character building, but in economics, marketing, and social dynamics.

Reciprocity

“People tend to return a favor.”

Reciprocity is the idea that people tend to return a favor. This principle is rooted in the concept of social exchange, which suggests that people are more likely to help others when they believe they will receive something in return. The concept of reciprocity can be seen in many different forms of social interaction, from simple exchanges of goods and services to more complex interactions involving favors and assistance.

One way that the principle of reciprocity can be used in persuasion is through the use of small favors or gifts. For example, a salesperson might give a potential customer a small gift or a sample of a product as a way of building rapport and creating a sense of obligation. By receiving something of value, the customer may feel a sense of indebtedness and be more likely to make a purchase in return.

Tony Stark (Iron Man): In "Avengers: Age of Ultron", Tony Stark uses the principle of reciprocity when he saves the city of Sokovia. After saving the city, he expects the other Avengers to support his idea of creating a global defense program.

Walter White (Breaking Bad): Walter White, in "Breaking Bad", regularly helps Jesse Pinkman out of tough situations, which he then uses to leverage Jesse's loyalty and assistance in his meth production business.