Examples Of Manipulation In Ender's Game

Mitchell Clavadetscher, Mrs.Prevost Adv. English 9 11 April 2024 Manipulation of Our Youth In Orson Scott Card's "Ender's Game," a recurring theme is the manipulation of young individuals by adults for many purposes. This theme reflects a theme we find in our own lives, where adults often seek to influence and shape the actions and beliefs of our youth. While manipulation can be seen as a means to achieve certain goals, it's extremely important to think of the ethics and impact on the affected individuals. Throughout the novel, adults manipulate young cadets like Ender Wiggin to form them into skilled military commanders to combat against the buggers. This manipulation is best shown in Colonel Graff's interactions with Ender, where he strategically

We can see this in real life when an adult may not like something and they put it on a child that they will have the same mindset on these things. For example, a parent may not like a movie or TV show, so they tell their young ones that they wouldn’t like it either. This prevents the child from forming their own opinions, because they are told by their parents what they do or don’t like. While manipulation is often viewed negatively, it could be argued that guiding and mentoring youth is essential to help them develop into young adults. In "Ender's Game," Ender goes beyond his role as just a piece in Graff’s plan, using his experiences to shape his future and do what he wants to do. On page 338, Ender states, "I'm going to find a way to make up for what I did. I'm going to find a way to understand." This example shows the potential for one to realize they can take their own path whilst being manipulated by an adult in their life. Similarly, in real life, adults should aim to help our youth, rather than exploit