I've taken a forgive them for they know not what they do approach, but I think a power/reputation-grab explanation better fits the facts from my experience. In

I've taken a forgive them for they know not what they do approach, but I think a power/reputation-grab explanation better fits the facts from my experience. In other words, let the weeds grow with the wheat, and when it's time for harvest toss out all the weeds? Maybe. But if those weeds are going to make the whole place toxic better get rid of them asap.