Gaslighting
is a form of mental manipulation. It is an attempt to gain power over another
person by causing them to question reality. When a person isn’t sure what is
real, they have no concept of the amount of control another person has over
them. Gaslighting is a classic tactic used by abusers, cult leaders,
narcissists, and dictators. One of the most essential tools of gaslighting is
the use of “illusory truth.” The villain says something so many times that others
come to believe it is so. The illusion becomes reality. When reality can be
manipulated, so can the concepts of right and wrong. With those notions
upended, any action or manner of behavior is acceptable. There are no crimes
because the concept of law is debatable. The only thing that is certain is
whatever the gaslighter deems to be true.