The manipulation of circumstances plays a significant role in Light Yagami's plans in the anime "Death Note." Light uses his intelligence and the Death Note to manipulate events, people, and situations to achieve his goal of creating a world free of crime. He carefully orchestrates events to eliminate obstacles and maintain his position of power and influence as Kira, the self-proclaimed god of the new world. Manipulating circumstances allows Light to control outcomes and shape the world according to his vision.