Much of what Chris mentioned in this post is something that resonates with me at my current position. While not always manifested in the form or a promotion, I do see accolades and preferential treatment being heaped on the same individuals by upper management. The work that they do is no better than anyone in their department, and is often times inferior. But they receive these commendations and preferred treatment simply because of how they are seen towing the company line and by being agreeable with everything their manager suggests. I have a hard time accepting this being the norm since I believe disagreeing with a proposed course of action or providing counter-solutions should not make one seem disagreeable or combative.