Influence

Am I helping someone choose, or steering them without their awareness?

Influence is part of teaching, leadership, friendship, commerce and public life. Its ethical character depends partly on transparency, power and the room left for refusal. We can ask whether relevant interests and uncertainties are visible. A persuasive message need not be manipulative, but a good outcome does not automatically justify deception or concealed pressure.

A question to sit with (optional): Would this person make the same choice if they understood my interests and methods?