The worst of all worlds is when a blind application of the rules results in bad behavior.

This situation seems to come up frequently, and I'm very often appalled at how readily otherwise normal people will "follow the rules" even when it's clearly and objectively bad, and there may even be existing pathways to seek exceptions.

AKA "perverse incentive"[0]

[0]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perverse_incentive

Some types of people are “rule followers” are can’t fathom breaking any rules.

There are also “rule breakers” who can’t fathom being told what to do.

Both types of people are insufferable.