You are correct about conditioning.

Zero tolerence can work both ways. It is up to you to insure you will not arbitrarily surrender your property.

It usually takes a couple extra minutes but I always protest/refuse to comply.

If you are soft spoken but firm you will usually be granted the simple courtesy of your right to your own property.

Even if it something small.
If at the airport I am asked to remove my shoes I ask for a chair, no chair, no shoes.

If however something spins out of control you must remember that you have NO CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS until after the fact when you may seek redress in the courts. I know its not correct but thats the way police security seems to work today.