Is Division the Secret Weapon of Every Empire? — divisive tactics in politics, unity through diversity, fear-based manipulation techniques
social division strategies, manipulation of cultural identity, consequences of fear mongering
Every empire understands this:
A united people cannot be ruled.
So it divides them.
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By skin.
By faith.
By language.
By the story they tell about who started the fire.
It makes you so afraid of each other that you forget the man holding the match.
And when you finally see…
— Sony Thăng (@nxt888) August 14, 2025
Every empire understands this:
Throughout history, empires have dominated by recognizing a crucial truth: a united people cannot be ruled. It’s a simple yet profound realization that has shaped the tactics of those in power. When people come together, they become a formidable force, capable of resisting oppression and demanding change. To maintain control, empires resort to dividing communities along various lines.
A united people cannot be ruled:
Dividing people is an effective strategy. Empires fracture society by skin, by faith, and by language. This division creates an environment of distrust and fear. When individuals feel threatened by those who are different, they are less likely to unite against their common oppressor. This is a technique used throughout history, from ancient civilizations to modern regimes.
So it divides them:
The act of division can manifest in many forms. It may be through cultural narratives that emphasize differences, or laws that create inequalities among groups. For example, racial segregation or religious discrimination can be tools for maintaining power. These divisions often lead to social unrest, making it easier for those in power to manipulate the situation to their advantage.
By skin:
Race has been a significant factor in the division of people. By creating hierarchies based on skin color, empires have historically justified oppression and violence. This practice continues to resonate today, as systemic racism remains prevalent in many societies around the globe.
By faith:
Religion is another line along which divisions are drawn. Different belief systems can lead to conflict, as empires exploit these differences to create factions that are too busy fighting each other to challenge authority.
By language:
Language barriers also serve as a tool of division. When people cannot communicate effectively, they struggle to find common ground. This linguistic divide can lead to isolation and misunderstanding, further entrenching power dynamics.
By the story they tell about who started the fire:
The narratives we tell influence how we perceive ourselves and others. Emperors and leaders often craft stories that highlight grievances and injustices, creating a sense of ‘us versus them.’ By focusing on these stories, they divert attention from their actions, manipulating public perception to maintain control.
It makes you so afraid of each other that you forget the man holding the match:
Fear is a powerful weapon. When we are afraid of each other, we lose sight of the true source of our oppression. Instead of directing our anger towards those in power, we may direct it inward, fostering division rather than unity.
And when you finally see:
Awareness is the first step toward change. Recognizing these tactics empowers individuals to unite against oppression. By understanding how divisions are created, we can work towards a more inclusive society where collaboration triumphs over fear. It’s time to focus on what unites us rather than what divides us, and to hold those in power accountable for their actions.