Rulers vs unbelievers

In Mr. Mango's (Andrew Bey) introduction to his biography of Atatürk, he writes (on page 5)

Since [the Ottoman rulers] possessed revealed truth which had shown its worth during the expansion of Ottoman power, they were reluctant to turn to unbelievers for anything other than technical advice. When they did so, they had to disguise their purpose. In any case, the official ideology of the state was an obstacle to innovation.

This report fascinates me. In substance, it echoes the same experience many have in modern American business. That is, many managers and executives conduct themselves as if they possess revealed truth. Most who report to them are deemed, in effect, unbelievers to whom they turn only for technical advice. Though, in this case, their purpose is not disguised. What is often covered up or glossed over is the significance of the immense dedication needed to acquire and develop the specialized knowledge that produces competent technical advice. In any event, the unofficial ideology of the current state of common American management is an obstacle to innovation.