Better for Business: Dwight or Stanley?

As the unemployment rate keeps falling, people are more nervous than ever of losing their job. As people are fearful, their behavior changes from strength to fear. However, is this fearful switch better for business? The more fearful we are of a pink slip, the more we suck up. . . human nature. How can sucking up be harmful for business? There ceases to be the same kind of checks and balances that used to keep us on the up and up. Anyone who is a fan of "The Office" knows the difference between Dwight and Stanley. Dwight will do anything Michael asks of him, even take the fall for him if that will deem him loyal. However, Stanley could care less and will call Michael out on any and every fault he sees; hopefully making Michael double check his actions. Which will make Michael a better manager, and better for Dunder Mifflin as a corporation?
Sure, sucking up may work for the moment, but in the long run - would you rather work for someone who just keeps you around for sucking up to them, or a boss that respects your opinion and knows that you will be honest with them to help them do their best? The best kind of work relationship is one where you have a mutual respect for one another, not one where you need to always agree with the each other no matter the situation. Not one where you have to show up 5 minutes before they do and leave 5 minutes after they do so they think you are working much harder than you really are. Not one where your opinions must be checked at the door. Not one where it is tempting to throw your cube-mate under the bus so you can climb one rung higher.
When looking for the right job, look for the right kind of manager. One who will respect your contribution to the group, looking for a healthy dialogue that will benefit the organization on the whole. How will I know this when I see it? Look for the signs; they are there in the interview. Are they being honest with you? Do they let you meet some of their subordinates in order to get a feel for what it is like to work in the department? Is the receptionist happy when you walk in? A great work environment starts from the minute you walk in the door. You will know. If you have to be a Dwight to work there and keep your job. . . you will not last. . . you will not be happy. . . you know this to be true.