> The underlying issue is my biggest peeve with both the buisness and political world. There is a popular viewpoint spread by many defacto authority figures that one should presume good faith from all groups involved, even though everything I can see tells me the opposite.

This is a pretty big deal.

Assuming good faith by authority figures is a popular and common fallacy from people who sit in the "Lawful" quadrant. N.b., I see this a lot in academic circles. Arguing from authority is the M.O. there, and assuming from authority is the consequence.

There's also assuming bad faith, a equally fallacious and (at least equally) popular idea from people who sit in the "Chaotic" quadrant.

We have to remember to have nuance in our opinions and dealings with others.