Thread by @mentalities_

I used to think I was smart & rational.

Then I found the CIA's classified art of manipulation and dark psychology.

Especially these 7 MIND CONTROL techniques separating the survivors from the victims.

Test yourself now: 🧵

The biggest lie about persuasion:

"If I just present enough evidence, they'll see the truth."

Wrong.

The brain treats attacks on beliefs like physical threats. Logic triggers defense, not enlightenment.

1/ DON’T ATTACK THE BELIEF — OFFER A BETTER IDENTITY

When confronted with facts that challenge core beliefs, the amygdala activates the same response as facing a predator.

Your "evidence" literally feels like an attack.

Master persuaders don't attack beliefs. They infiltrate them.

Instead of saying "You're wrong,"

They ask:

"What would have to happen for you to consider a different view?"

This shifts the brain from defense to exploration.

2/ SOCRATIC METHOD

Questions bypass the ego's defenses.

ASK: "What's the strongest argument against your position?"

Now watch them plant seeds of their own doubt.

3/ AGREEMENT IS MORE POWERFUL THAN ARGUMENT

Find ONE thing you genuinely agree on.

Build from shared ground.

The mind opens to those it perceives as allies, not enemies.

3.1/ The "BENJAMIN FRANKLIN EFFECT" proves this:

He turned enemies into allies by asking them for favors.

When someone helps you, their brain rationalizes:

"I must like this person."

Use this. Ask for their advice. Make them invested in you.

4/ STORIES HIJACK & CONTROL THE LOGICAL MIND

When you share a personal experience, the brain processes it as if it's happening to them.

• Defenses drop.
• Mirror neurons fire.
• Empathy activates.

Data tells. Stories sell. Stories change minds.

5/ THE MOST POWERFUL PHRASE IN PERSUASION: “YES… AND”

This validates their intelligence while opening space for new ideas.

"You might be right..."
Follow with:
"Have you considered..."

Their guard drops. Curiosity emerges.

6/ TIMING IS EVERYTHING

Never try to change minds when emotions run high.

1. Plant seeds when they're relaxed.
2. Water them with questions.
3. Let THEM conclude they were wrong.

The illusion of self-discovery is persuasion's greatest weapon.

7/ INSTANT REINFORCEMENT

And when cooperation appears, he locks it in with:

• Praise.
• Gratitude.
• Recognition.

This cements the behavior, making it more likely to repeat—whether you’re dealing with a kidnapper, a colleague, or a customer service rep.

If you liked this thread, join me on my mission:

School and society never taught you how to master the mind.

My mission is to uncover the hidden wisdom in psychology and game theory for those who seek power and self-mastery.

Follow me @mentalities_ to become Der Übermensch.