# 29. "We, the people" fallacy ## 29.5. Methodology/Refinements/Sub-species ### 29.5.1. Astro-turfing This is the manipulative technique of paying or employing people or groups to appear to be part of a "grass roots" movement. This is really a fraudulent rent-a-crowd technique that is often used in undemocratic or poorly regulated democratic regimes, including the USA, where the use of money in politics is not properly regulated or policed. However, this technique can also be found in more regulated societies where payment is not made in money but by means of influence. ***Parent:** [["We, The People" Fallacy]]*