If I hold the door for you, it’s up to me. A person’s response is up to them. No one is required to be anyone but themselves. The fact that you open the door as a contingency for praise reveals your intention for doing so. You seek to be seen as a better person. Is there power mongering in that? I think so. This discussion is power mongering. My reaction and qualification is power mongering. Why do I feel the need to examine your question/action? Who am I to judge? Am I better than you for seeing the power dynamics? I should mind my own business, but you have also made me realize and think about the scenario you proposed. I thank you. We are of the same ilk. “Here, let me hold the door. Shall we have breakfast? I am hungry.”