Sometimes when analyzing a network, you introduce a known stimulus then sit back and read the traffic.
Where does your stimulus info go, who gets it first, what are the flow channels? Who is the boss, who is respected, who never gets it. The net can be shaped out.
Then you can pay attention to what people in the net say about your little goose- “FMDCH-BITS!!!!” and “Molon Labe” being the milder responses you’d be interested in.
Every admin uses these techniques on the US people, it’s just easier now that so many are web connected.
One of my role models was Edward Bernays. Among many things in his long career, he worked with the USGovt during WWII on propaganda and public perception, and consensus shaping. He helped us win the war by pulling people together behind the effort. They did things like this case, ring the bell and listen to it ring.
Good perspective, DBrow.