"Could be, in part, the reason why I have experienced conflicting attitudes from other male authority figures (as I like to keep my hair long). Perhaps, having long hair is a sign of independence, non-conformity, which can be admonished by those that have already allowed themselves to be subjugated by a system that imposes such norms in appearances on its participants."
Precisely.
As a female, I have only had serious relationships with men with longish hair. Not just because of physical attraction, but more mental attraction. They just seemed smarter and more aware of the world. Much more aware. I took them more seriously than the sheered business-men conformist types. After reading that, I definitely think there is something to it. It makes total sense.
And now I think I will grow my hair down to my butt. ;)