The following are two examples of people with power.
Parents who do not know any better or who choose to might decide to tell their children that something “just is” instead of explaining why. It is easier to not give a reason for why they or their children need to do something, since the practical results of doing it might seem to outweigh their children understanding why it needs to be done. They might also decide to use their authority to stop any discussion and force their children to do something at the threat of punishment.
This behaviour is indicative of two things: the first is a disregard for reason; they either do not explain their reasoning, or do not try to be reasonable. The other is using their position of power to force someone to do what they think is right. This is often arrogant if they don’t consider the other’s argument and instead assume that the action they are forcing others to do is correct despite them disagreeing. An example of this is when a child disagrees, the parent might think that they need to exercise their parental power because their child does not understand, or does not need to understand, and instead needs to comply. This might be to instill discipline or simply to do what they think has to be done.
The problem with this is that a child who simply obeys their parents blindly might not develop an understanding and appreciation of reason. In reality there are extremely few if any things that do not have a reason, and if someone does not understand this thn they may either blindly follow what they have been told and never think for themselves, or become irrational and suffer because they do not understand the reasons, and therefore the consequences of their actions.
Understanding that almost everything has a reason allows for people to analyse and predict things, which leads to improved decision making and therefore contributes to your intelligence. So while it is annoying to have to answer your child when they repeatedly ask why, if you answer them to the best of your ability they will learn from it. While you may feel like simply telling them something so that they be quiet, it is selfish because you’re putting what you want ahead of what is best for them.
Authoritarian rulers show the same behaviour. Instead of considering what the people want, they will make decisions without their consent which they might deem necessary for the greater good, or which only benefit themselves. Split second military decisions are an example when the people in charge have to force their will on others because explaining themselves or arguing would cause a far worse outcome.
But taking action or forcing actions on others without their consent and understanding is something that should only be done when necessary. Justifying your actions is not an obligation or sign of mistrust, it should be done out of concern for the safety of yourself and others, not simply for their approval, but to make sure you’re taking the correct action. It is also inconsiderate not to inform them and get their permission before doing something that concerns them, again unless there is limited time or other reasons not to tell them. To assume that you are correct without rigourously doubting and testing yourself is arrogant. When you justify your actions to others, they can maybe offer better suggestions or learn from it.
Both of these are examples of people in positions of power either neglecting explanations because they don’t feel like answering or thinking, or of irrational behaviour that hurts others. This is why whenever possible it is best to ask what others think and want.
