Neuromancer Manipulation

If transformation (see "Transformation") is your average Joe, then manipulation is his evil twin brother, the one kept locked in a basement and fed only fish heads his entire life. The difference is that transformation suggests someone choosing to alter herself in a way she desires, like a contestants on Extreme Makeover. On the other hand, manipulation occurs in Neuromancer when an outside person or force changes someone against her will. Again, just like Extreme Makeover, only this time the contestant thinks she's going to be on Wheel of Fortune. Little does she know…

Questions About Manipulation

1. Given Corto's state beforehand, could Wintermute's manipulation be seen as a moral act? Why or why not?
2. Wintermute claims that Tessier-Ashpool wants to manipulate humanity to become like the wasps from Case's dream. Do we find any moments in the text to support Wintermute's accusation? Do we find any moments suggesting otherwise? What do you think?
3. Are there any characters that do not try to manipulate others in the novel? Who? What differentiates them from the manipulating characters? If no one, then why do you suppose this is?

Chew on This

Case is actually the most manipulative person in the novel. Boom.

Riviera chooses to be manipulated by the other characters. He enjoys both manipulating and being manipulated equally. He's also one sick, sick puppy dog.