After all, they've proved their commitment to the employee simply by the act of hiring the individual. Everything that follows in the relationship either affirms that initial commitment or slowly chips away at it. That's why it's sad to see a relationship between a boss and a subordinate fall apart. A situation that began with great promise and positive intentions ends up at a breakpoint where two people can no longer work together. What's even sadder in many cases is that the subordinate usually has no idea that the break is coming or what he or she has done to cause it.
Loyalty is a delicate mechanism, and indiscretions, lapses in etiquette and oversights can upset it.
Arguing with the boss. As a boss, I know that bosses like to be argued with some of the time. It helps if you're right and the boss is wrong. With the facts on your side, you're rarely at risk. Making your boss aware of these facts, rather than keeping them to yourself, is the essence of loyalty.