Lets face it it is no longer the captains right to fly all the sectors otherwise half the crew would be unable to operate due lack of sectors especially in a long haul environment.
I cannot let this pass. This attitude is a myth and you are sadly mistaken. The Captain has every right to operate the aircraft as is seen proper within the constraints of the
Air Navigation Act. Please review the CAR 224 for an appraisal of what the Captain can and cannot do. As a Co-pilot, you have no "rights" to anything.
Regarding the Gradient of Authority, this is variable in its application. Under some circumstances, a flat gradient works best. Under others, a steep gradient is required. It all depends on the situation and to infer that a 'flat gradient of authority is always safest' is to fail to understand the basis fundumentals of leadership. followership and effective CRM.