Definition
An antidote phrase used in aviation human-factors training to counter the hazardous attitude of Anti-Authority. A pilot who recognizes anti-authority thinking in themselves (resistance to rules, regulations, or instructions from those in charge) recites this phrase to redirect their thinking back toward compliance with established procedures and aviation regulations.
Plain English
A short reminder a pilot says to themselves when they notice they are pushing back against rules. Saying it interrupts the rebellious thought and reminds them that the rules generally exist for good reasons.
Context Anchor
Seen in hazardous attitude training, especially when learning how to recognize and correct an anti-rule mindset before it affects a flight decision.
Why Pilots Care
Using this mindset counters the impulse to ignore procedures, lowering the risk of preventable incidents.
Intuition Check
Do not read this as “rules are always perfect” or “never think for yourself.” Here it means that a pilot should not reject rules casually; rules are normally the safest starting point for a decision.
Example Sentence 1
When the instructor introduced the five hazardous attitudes, she had each student memorize the antidote for anti-authority: 'Follow the rules. They are usually right.'
Example Sentence 2
After a near-miss caused by deviating from an ATC clearance, the pilot reflected that following the rules would have been the wiser choice.