The Machiavellian Gift

Grandiose leaders become vastly enlarged by this identification with the masses. They are not merely one man or woman but embody an entire nation or interest group. Distracting people gives them time and space to do something their targets won't notice. A gift brings out the child in us, instantly lowering our defenses. The recipients of... Gifts, financial or otherwise, are suddenly as vulnerable as children - especially when the gift comes from someone in authority. Beware especially of the gift that comes out of the blue.