If companies encroached on my paycheck as much as they do on my time it'd be theft, and time is actually more valuable.
Edit: IANAL disclaimer... I'm sure it's not technically theft here... but it's pressure and I think the metaphor still holds.
Companies setting deadlines and not including developers in discussions is asking them to either: - Stand up for themselves, even though they have less power/don't want to risk their job - Spend more of their precious time on the company
I find myself repeatedly being pushed into the second option, and when I bring any of this up no one wants to tackle it at a systems-level... because the system is working as intended. Taking from those who can't or won't defend themselves seems to be how to be successful in business.
What's a good way to push back without looking like a dick or being shunted?