Is it manipulative?

In ‘Surrounded by idiots’ the author addresses a question he got pre writing the book.

But isn’t it manipulative to adapt to everyone around us, shouldn’t we be our authentic selves all the time?

For me I look to Uncle Ben and his immortal quote…

“With great power comes great responsibility”

It’s manipulative if you prey on the weak to get ahead.

It’s healthy to learn social skills to prevent crippling loneliness.

It all depends on how you wield the sword.