[paulcole]

I mean the reason I blew you off is that you didn't answer any of my questions.

I see this often and if you've convinced yourself that you have no control in this situation you should find a different situation. Or you should realize that you can do different things and have some control of your situation. Up to you.

> they sure as hell won't like it

What will they do if they don't like it? Does your company fire people often?

> Can we refuse to comply?

What specifically would happen if you refuse to comply?

> they simply can't do otherwise

They can't? What would happen if they did do otherwise?

Overall, someone not liking you at work is not a real consequence if it makes you happier. Plenty of people you've met in life don't like you and it doesn't bother you that much does it?