Lackeyship

Lackeyship refers to the subservient or excessively deferential behavior, attitude, or role of a person, especially towards someone in a position of power or authority. It encompasses flattery, obsequiousness, and a willingness to comply with the demands of a superior, often at the expense of one's own dignity or principles. This conduct frequently involves seeking favor, advancement, or protection through compliance, and is often viewed critically as a sign of weakness or opportunism. The term underscores the power dynamics present in hierarchical relationships.

Lackeyship meaning with examples

• The ambitious young politician engaged in blatant lackeyship toward the party leader, showering him with compliments and readily agreeing with every viewpoint expressed, even when it contradicted his prior stances. He saw this as a necessary step to climbing the ranks. His colleagues, however, saw him as a sycophant. They believed that this behaviour would ultimately cost him the respect of the party.
• Accused of corrupt practices, the CEO's closest advisors displayed complete lackeyship during the board meeting. They voiced enthusiastic approval of his proposals without any critical assessment, hoping to maintain their high-paying positions and avoid any personal repercussions. They were simply protecting themselves.
• During the historical period of monarchical rule, the courtiers' existence depended on cultivating lackeyship. The lavish praise and fawning behavior were essential to surviving in the royal court. Independent thought and genuine dissent were ruthlessly punished; those courtiers who could master the art of flattery thrived.
• The employee, desperate to be promoted, exhibited excessive lackeyship towards her manager, volunteering for every task, readily agreeing with all her opinions, and constantly seeking her approval. This, however, was counter-productive, as it made her look insincere and less competent in the eyes of her colleagues and the manager.
• The new manager encouraged his staff to express their opinions freely, a stark contrast to the previous leader's preference for unquestioning lackeyship. This created a more collaborative and innovative work environment, where team members felt empowered to challenge assumptions.
• The historical record shows how leaders throughout time have cultivated lackeyship, through the manipulation of power structures and the careful selection of individuals who will demonstrate unwavering allegiance. This has proved a means of controlling the narrative.
• Many saw the rise of the internet and social media as a means to counter institutionalized lackeyship and favour a more democratic and egalitarian approach. These developments fostered independent thinking.
• The academic community often struggles with lackeyship, where researchers are pressured to present their findings in ways that please powerful funding agencies. Independent, challenging viewpoints are often downplayed or dismissed, to the detriment of true scholarly inquiry.