Policies, no, airmanship yes - it is what a Captain is paid for. Not sure why we keep on looking for 'rules' here. If you have not got enough fuel and the weather is crud, you push off somewhere better and let the company sort it out.
BOAC, agree 100%.
Doing "things right" (slavishly following a set of rules) is management whereas doing the "right thing" is leadership.
Trouble is the "MacDonalds" approach to aviation (or "painting by numbers") which is now being brainwashed into pilots by certain Companies is becoming far too prevalent.
Of course rules and procedures are important to safe operation but, in my opinion, proficient aircraft Commanders/Pilots also need "original thought" to stay out of trouble - as you say that's what the Captain is paid for.
Also the "rules" are the
minimum requirements - I see far too much analysis of PROB30 versus PROB40 TS etc.