Political Manipulation Strategies

noun the action, treated as a criminal offense, of demanding payment or another benefit from someone in return for not revealing compromising or damaging information about them

• The act of blackmail is illegal and punishable by law.
• I can't believe he tried to blackmail me into doing his homework!
• She's always using blackmail to get what she wants.
• The dark cloud of blackmail hung over their relationship, causing tension and distrust.

noun a deceit used in order to achieve one's goal

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• The espionage agency used subterfuge to gather classified information.
• She always resorts to subterfuge to get what she wants.
• He's a master at pulling off subterfuge without getting caught.
• The politician's promises were just a subterfuge to win votes.

noun a practice of masking the sponsors of a message or organization to make it appear as though it originates from and is supported by grassroots participants

• The company was accused of astroturfing by creating fake online reviews to boost their reputation.
• I heard that some companies are astroturfing on social media to make their products seem more popular.
• I can't believe they're astroturfing the internet just to sell more stuff.
• His constant bragging about his accomplishments felt like astroturfing his own ego.