Talking about dictatorships and mafia and theocracy and democracy.

[Reforged]

That same sentiment applies to all of the above. Corporations rule the world, they provide the resources required to keep the wheels turning.
However a democracy contains a variety of opportunities to exploit for any individuals with the wiles to do so. Although maybe I was mistaken; a Theocracy might be easier to navigate in that sense. The Derren Browns of this world would have the mindless masses eating out of the palms of their hands.

Where a democracy provides more opportunity for manipulation, because of modern democracies focus on free speech and human rights there is far greater opportunity for dissent against those agendas as well. Where as with others forms of government it is easier to make dissenters disappear. Look no further then the breadth of the Catholic pedo scandal to demonstrate this.

Modern democracy ensures dissent can be swept away with pretty words and a quick vote even on the most controversial issues. If congress want a bill gone it gets scraped, if only the public want it gone it gets shelved. If Fox announce someone got voted in but didn't they get made president anyway.
Its all misdirection and showmanship and the best players get the best prizes. Con-artists thrive in democracies, both legal and otherwise.