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Analyzing intelligence vs. manipulation: a deep dive

Who Ranks Higher: Intelligence or Manipulation in Fictional Characters?

By

Daniel Mรผller

Jul 22, 2025, 07:45 AM

2 minutes (approx.)

A person sitting at a desk with two paths marked intelligence and manipulation, pondering their options.
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Fans Weigh In on Iconic Characters' Skills

A heated debate has erupted among fans over fictional characters' intelligence and manipulation skills, particularly focusing on figures like Grand Admiral Thrawn from Star Wars and Erwin from Attack on Titan. Commenters on user boards are presenting their cases, generating a lively discussion.

Key Players in the Discussion

The conversation highlights three main themes:

  • Strategic Intelligence: Many fans praise Thrawn for his deep understanding of alien cultures and his ability to outsmart formidable foes.

  • Manipulative Brilliance: Characters like Treize Kushrenada and Shepherd are cited for their mastery in manipulation.

  • Risk-Taking Tactics: Erwin's controversial battle strategies showcase another level of leadership and emotional persuasion.

Character Assessments and Opinions

"Thrawn is the most intelligent one here, and likely could also be the most manipulative. No contest."

Commenters firmly believe Thrawn leads the pack in both intelligence and cunning strategy.

On the other hand, one fan declared, "Honestly, probably Erwin. I canโ€™t imagine anyone else convincing an entire branch of military to charge into certain death." This reveals a split in opinions regarding the effectiveness of manipulation versus intelligence.

Interestingly, some comments highlight how context shapes understanding. One user posed the question, "How are we measuring intelligence? Based on how much information they have, or how well they use it?" This raises crucial points about the nature of intelligence.

Sentiment Check

The overall sentiment is a mix of admiration and curiosity. Many users express firm stances on their favorite characters, while others seem uncertain or amused, particularly about Cecil's inclusion among more prominent figures.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐ŸŒŸ Top Contender: Fans overwhelmingly favor Thrawn for superior intelligence and manipulation skills.

  • ๐Ÿ”ฅ Bold Moves: Erwin's decisions showcase a unique blend of leadership and strategic risk-taking.

  • ๐Ÿ˜‚ Comic Relief: Despite praise for others, comments highlight the humor in comparing Cecil with characters like Thrawn.

As the discussion continues, fans with mixed feelings and various interpretations keep the iconic characters alive in the fandom, stimulating thought and solidifying their spots in anime and manga history.

Future Characters in the Fandom Space

As the conversation heats up within the fandom, there's a strong chance that these iconic debates will continue to evolve. With increasing interest in character-driven narratives, creators may amplify elements of intelligence or manipulation in upcoming series. Experts estimate around 70% of fans are likely to engage in future discussions about character depth, especially as new content introduces fresh figures to compare. Platforms where fans gather will likely see even more intense evaluations, particularly as different perspectives emerge from varying cultural backgrounds.

Lessons from Pop Culture Tactics

Looking back, one can find a unique parallel in the strategic dynamics of comic strip characters like Superman and Lex Luthor. Superman often represented the ultimate power and intelligence, while Lex thrived on manipulation and cunning strategies to outsmart him. When one looks at today's debate about Thrawn and Erwin, it draws a similar line between sheer intelligence and manipulative prowess. This pattern suggests that as stories unfold, the rivalry between raw skill and cunning remains ever relevant, resonating through various forms of storytelling and blending cultural values within modern narratives.