Hello Jason
In your usual inimitable style you have tackled not just the boxed-in manager but also an entire industry whose livelihood depends on keeping that manager boxed-in.
Like many things in life, as you elegantly point out, you either play the game, or stay on the sidelines.
Technology may yet undo some of these shackles but it will be a battle hard fought with a lot of lucrative year-end bonus cheques at stake for the investment consulting industry.
To your last point, my all time favourite poem has to be the Tragic End of Dr. Faustus - what's a soul compared to paycheques worth several million - a small price to pay.
Kind regards and a pleasant weekend
Savio