What I have found is that most people who live a life of hedonism and instant gratification, eventually run out of the resources they require and increasingly become reliant on others.
Very true, I've seen the same pattern emerge with many of my fellow hedonists.
I do not think there is a great deal of pleasure to be found in having to manipulate and rely on others to get what one wants.
That's why it's always best to have your own business, so as to meet your material needs- otherwise you rely on employers to feed you your much needed resources. (rather than creating your own).
Manipulation isn't the problem - it's part of human interaction - intent of the manipulation is the issue.
....you've been mentioned in dispatches! It might make you smile. Probably not. lol
https://steemit.com/blog/@lucylin/the-daily-patriot-the-weekly-steem-round-up-and-having-some-fun