Social Interaction is about Manipulation

Most social interaction is about manipulation

to a certain extent,

or at least manipulating the conversation

to be able to create the glue

that serves to bind people socially:

making people feel understood.

In pretty much all situations,

whether it's a customer complaining,

a romantic partner ranting

or meeting someone who may become a friend,

the goal is to make the other person feel seen,

heard and understood.