Book excerpt: The book "333 Facets of Manipulators" is an in-depth and detailed exploration of human manipulation, encompassing psychological, social, and neuroscientific aspects. The author, Renato Barbosa Moreira, unfolds the concept of manipulation in several layers, from its presence on the stage of everyday life to the complexities of the manipulator's mind and the strategies to deal with it. The first chapter introduces the world of manipulation, highlighting how it can be compared to an illusion of magic on stage, where reality is distorted to entertain. In real life, however, manipulation is less visible and more insidious, often hiding the truth and limiting freedom of choice. The book addresses the psychology and neuroscience behind manipulation, citing relevant works and studies, such as those by Robert B. Cialdini and Solomon Asch, that show how we are influenced and how our decision-making and emotion brain areas are affected. In the following chapters, Moreira examines the development of the manipulator, from roots in personality and experience to upward in society. It discusses how manipulators gain power in different social spheres and how technology and social media have become new territories for manipulation. The author also explores manipulation in interpersonal relationships, such as in love and family relationships, and in the work environment. The book offers perspectives on how to recognize and protect oneself from manipulation tactics, emphasizing the importance of questioning intentions and consequences and training the "mental immune system." Moreira also addresses the proliferation of manipulative behavior and how society has become accustomed to it, highlighting the role of neuroscience in understanding and combating manipulation. Finally, the author presents strategies for confronting and unmasking manipulators, paths to healing from manipulation, and how each individual can contribute to a less manipulative world. The book closes with reflections on the lessons presented and encourages personal and collective action and change.