Twice one day this week, I was asked the same question - which is actually a prefix to a question…. "Can I ask your professional opinion about x?".
I can't tell you how unusual a request that is for me. Largely because it bestows an unnatural amount of respect upon, in this case, me. It's unnatural. I'm not used to it. Disorientating.
Later, I saw another patient today who ended every half sentence with the word "Sir". I used to do a bit of this myself but in equalising status between the participants of the consultation I don't do it so much any more. It doesn't seem equal. But having it done on me is an incredibly powerful weapon of manipulation. Maybe that's why I dumped it. You can feel yourself being persuaded. And like a placebo it doesn't make it less effective just because you know what's going on.
To be manipulated by your own humility is subtle plutonium.
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