This is called "Fuckery:" I tell you a lie. You know it's a lie. I know you know it's a lie. But you have to pretend that you believe it because of the power I have over you.
The Fuckery is a demonstration of that power.
The Fuckery is a demonstration of that power.
If you don't call out my lie, you are just a bootlicker who cannot be trusted for anything requiring initiative.
If you do, then you can be a real partner.
There is still a subtlety. You have to call me out without making me lose face. If you can call out my lie and deflect the blame away from me, that's the best.
It's a test of loyalty via a show of power