I was recently reading about social proof and noticed how much it can be (and is widely) used to manipulate people into doing things. It got me thinking about morality.

The first, instantaneous reaction of someone with conscience would be that employing manipulative techniques in order to change people’s behavior for personal gain is wrong.

Then there is the notion that one man’s choice to deliberately not using manipulation won’t change anything, since everybody else is using it, at least the ones who know how to.

Things get even more complex if you use manipulation for a Good Cause. Firstly, who are you to decide what’s good? Secondly, does the end justify the means?

If you’d decide to use manipulation only to an extent that puts you into a position where you’re financially able to Help people in need or contribute to a Cause you perceive as good, is that morally acceptable?