[arcticbull]

Sure, that's totally fair, but let's step back for a second. Let's say there's you, who's got the company's best interests at heart and a great technical/product direction. Then there's Steve. Steve is rubbing backs, in it for himself, but in the pocket of everyone who matters. Who's gonna win? Sadly, it's Steve. Not playing politics is a great way to lose at politics because you're going to get beaten by the first person who is.

Now, if you're a good politician with the best interests of the company at heart and the technical skills to deliver, the math is different, and the sky's the limit for you :)