The Horse is Always Right: what does this mean?

The horse is governed by instinct. Ever action and reaction is instinct telling them to do something, or NOT do something.

We are governed by rules, that either ourselves or our society have created. We do not often use instinct.

Instincts have allowed the horse to survive for as long as they have.
So, a decision made by a horse can mean life or death.

In domestication, the horse responds in ways to protect itself from pain and stress. Sometimes we see these actions and reactions and wish to alter them for our own convenience or for our own pleasure, or for some, a sense of control and dominance.
What this results in is the horses' natural instinct, sense of self, his VOICE is silenced. He cannot as easily express pain and discomfort, or he must choose between that, and punishment.

BUT if we respect that the HORSE is ALWAYS right, we can seek to understand WHY the horse does certain things, and how we can adjust our own sensibility to give the horse his voice, to educate US about what HE needs and wants.
It's surprising to discover what a horse likes and dislikes when he is given his voice unconditionally. Over time, the horse may CHOOSE to be with us, without force, without coercion.

For a VERY simple exercise in listening to the horses' voice...groom him at liberty (no halters!) with brushes. Groom him as thought you were going to ride. If he doesn't walk away, groom him with your hands, in all the sensitive areas that many horses might get touchy. If he is still with you, walk away from him. Does he follow you? Does he know how to ask for more grooming? What is his body language while you groom? Does he return the favor or just stand there and tolerate it?
If he refuses something, what is your reaction?

*If your horse bites you, WHAT DO YOU DO?*