[grzm]

It is an interesting dilemma, isn't it? One I think about quite a bit. One way to view this dilemma is that we recognize that we have tendencies as part of our human psychology to do things that are not in our long term best interests. We're not perfectly rational actors. But since we can discover these tendencies, we have the opportunity to put into practice habits and conventions that prevent us from falling for our own foibles.

I think your phrase "protects us from ourselves" is apt. I struggle a bit with the "limited agency" aspect of it as it sounds like it could have negative connotations, though it's accurate in a strict sense.

I think this is related to us looking out for each other. Where's the line between limiting someone's agency in some malicious sense and honestly trying to be a good person? Can we look out for people we don't know personally? How does this work when we're looking out for the community as a whole?

I think this is a good question. If you choose to down vote, I'd appreciate it if you'd also take the time to reply in a comment.