The book "Art of Decomposition" by Wolfgang Schmidt sheds light on the manipulative techniques that intelligence agencies have employed over the centuries to suppress opposition and resistance. Schmidt, who has experience in an intelligence agency himself, analyzes the method of decomposition, which aims to deliberately spread rumors and lies to discredit and isolate individuals. He illustrates how these techniques continue to be used today through phenomena such as fake news and what psychological mechanisms are at play. Additionally, the book offers valuable insights into how individuals and groups can protect themselves against such manipulations. The central question that Schmidt raises is: Who benefits from it?.