The evolutionary framing here is useful precisely because it shows the double edge: synchrony that produces genuine connection and synchrony that can be weaponized. What's interesting is that the manipulative version isn't fundamentally different from the authentic version at the physiological level - the mirrored heartbeats and matched gestures happen regardless of intent. The question of whether charismatic people are 'naturally' good at this or have learned to deploy it strategically might be unanswerable, which is probably the point. The Great Dane scenario is perfectly chosen - it captures exactly how a momentary sense of connection can produce commitments that make no rational sense five minutes later.
You get me! - Hey, thanks for reading and the thoughtful commentary. It's fun to poke at these ideas and see what falls out. I'm glad you responded--it was nice to hear your response.
The evolutionary framing here is useful precisely because it shows the double edge: synchrony that produces genuine connection and synchrony that can be weaponized. What's interesting is that the manipulative version isn't fundamentally different from the authentic version at the physiological level - the mirrored heartbeats and matched gestures happen regardless of intent. The question of whether charismatic people are 'naturally' good at this or have learned to deploy it strategically might be unanswerable, which is probably the point. The Great Dane scenario is perfectly chosen - it captures exactly how a momentary sense of connection can produce commitments that make no rational sense five minutes later.
You get me! - Hey, thanks for reading and the thoughtful commentary. It's fun to poke at these ideas and see what falls out. I'm glad you responded--it was nice to hear your response.