This book attempts to show how it is possible for someone to be led to do something they dislike, without any benefit from it, without the excuse of being pressured or threatened. It aims to teach its readers what one must do to force others to behave in the way they desire. It is a book that seeks to explain how anyone can, without special scientific knowledge or authority, influence the behavior of others, whether in friendly or professional relationships, as well as in passing encounters.

Essentially, it raises the issue of manipulation and teaches in a vivid and enjoyable manner. The authors, Joule and Beauvois, draw on theories and experiments from social psychology and simply explain the techniques of manipulation that allow some to take from others what they want.