Mansfield,
You have introduced a really interesting aspect to this debate - the psychological effect from being conditioned to comply. Is this a result of companies over-emphasising the need to comply with SOPs and company procedures rather than educating pilots to understand aerodynamics, their aircraft and its systems so that they can work from first principles?
Don't get me wrong - SOPs are the bedrock of a good safe standard operation, and adherence to them is vital. BUT - there are times when it is necessary to apply basic understanding - and this requires education rather than the slavish following of rules.
For example the basic application of correct attitude and power to achieve the desired speed.