You still need to convince people to follow you.

At least in a democratic country.

Yes, of course. But manipulation is the antithesis of this question. 

One of the most powerful psyops in the world is how the sociopaths warp the thinking of good people. Even those that see them for what they are. We get distracted by the psyop. We see it, but are on defense instead of offense. Its a trap I often fall into.  

kepford

> we CANNOT control others

True.

Having said that, manipulation is a powerful tool used by anyone wanting to have any kind of power and influence in the world.

nullama

culture

If the whole world decided to follow you, where would you lead them?

Important bit on this perspective is that we CANNOT control others. If people decided to follow you this is a decision which you do not control. Unlike being a ruler where you can resign and relinquish your power. Many have tried reject leadership and failed.

Its one reason I think this question is great. I can only hope to control my own actions. So with that in mind how would I live my life if everyone chose to follow me. 