In our rapidly evolving age, society tends to attribute almost mythical qualities to those who display their exceptionality and independence, even if this is driven by skillful manipulation of those around them.

Modern Society's Idolization of Manipulative Personas

In our rapidly evolving age, society tends to attribute almost mythical qualities to those who display their exceptionality and independence, even if this is driven by skillful manipulation of those around them. Entering a world where self-assertion and charisma have become the currency of success, we witness people striving to break free from the ordinary and transform themselves into personalities symbolizing freedom and originality.

The core idea here is that modern culture increasingly exalts an external, sometimes deceptive form of independence that makes one appear unique and self-sufficient. These individuals skillfully craft an image imbued with self-confidence, attracting attention and admiration. However, behind this dazzling facade often lies an internal conflict, where the desire to be the center of attention and the urge to avoid subordination evolve into a meticulously staged performance that lacks true depth.

In summary, despite the evident influx of manipulative techniques in shaping personal image, modern society invariably gravitates toward those who seem free and unconventional. This phenomenon prompts us to reflect on the genuine value of individuality and the true meaning of freedom, inviting us to rethink our conventional ideas about what truly makes a person unique and successful.

Why does modern society admire manipulative personalities, and what positive qualities are attributed to them?

Modern society is often prone to deifying those who manage to impress with their exceptionality and apparent independence, even when such independence is achieved through manipulation. Essentially, society ascribes qualities like charisma, self-confidence, and the ability to stand out to these manipulative personalities. People who exhibit their “specialness” appear successful and liberated from traditional constraints, creating the illusion of a complete, even “deified” individual. This is captured in the following quotation:

"Modern Western civilization – and modern Russian reality is already a part of it, whether we like it or not – places the deified person on a pedestal. Modern society deifies the person in their current fallen state, with all their, as Christianity calls them, passions. Everyone is now in favor of naturalness, yet in art, on television, and in life we frequently witness the most unthinkable perversions – these are manifestations that are lower than natural, pathological." (source: link txt)

Furthermore, there exists an ideal where a person aspires not to be merely a functional component of the system, but to be a complete, unique personality capable of managing not only their own life but also influencing others, even if achieved through manipulation. As a result, the author expresses an unwillingness to be anyone’s "head", preferring instead to embody the image of a personality admired everywhere for its exceptionality:

"I don't want to be the 'head' at my barber," exclaims the author of "Anti-Carnegie," "I want to be everywhere and always an Everett Schostrom – a complete personality. We all want to be special." (source: link txt)

Thus, it can be said that modern society values the external brilliance of manipulative personalities, their ability to appear independent and successful, and their talent for standing out and demonstrating individuality. These qualities are perceived as positive, despite the underlying duplicity and selfishness, making such individuals attractive in the eyes of others.