Defending Against Manipulation

Framing is neutral, but often used to manipulate. Recognizing manipulative frames protects your judgment.

Political framing. "Tax relief" is the dominant deliberate frame — it casts taxes as a burden you need rescuing from. A reframe pushes back: taxes as "paying your share" or an "investment in roads and schools."

Media framing. "Unemployment drops to 5%" vs "1 in 20 workers can't find a job." Same statistic, different impact.

Sales framing. "Only 3 left" creates urgency through scarcity. The number may not be accurate — the frame triggers loss aversion regardless.