Is Manipulation a Sin?

Now, manipulation can begin at birth.

“The wicked are estranged from the womb; they go astray as they as soon as they are born, speaking lies.”

Let me give you one very homey example. A little baby is in its cot, and its diaper is wet, and it cries. And along comes Mommy, picks it up, changes the nappy, and then gives it a hug and a cuddle. So, the next time that baby wants to be hugged and cuddled, he cries, though his nappy is not wet. What is that? Manipulation.

Now, let me give you a few examples from contemporary culture. First of all, the field of advertising. And I want to say much advertising is ethical and honest and serves a useful purpose. But in advertising, there is also a great deal of concealed witchcraft. And it appeals to pride and covetousness.