Question:

Why do you do as you're told?

We resolutely obey the law and comply with other people's expectations and requests - at least some of the time. But isn't this primarily a matter of self-interest?

If everyone is obedient the world will be relatively predictable and safe and you can ask for something in return for your obedience - and make demands when you don't get it.

One of the first victims of philosophical thinking is hypocrisy, and Spinoza knew this like no other.