While this is slightly off topic, using "we" instead of "I" when representing your company is a very important concept that goes beyond being a team player. The use of we vs I is a liability issue, and knowing when to use which is critical to not getting sued (e.g. - "I believe that the design is adequate" vs "We believe that the design is adequate" or "I would never hire a redhead" vs "We would never hire a redhead").
Internally, I agree with you that one should always take full credit for their work, good or bad (at least verbally...). Externally, one should always remember what context your statement may be taken in, especially the context of a courtroom.
eh, in the things I am worried about? getting sued is pretty far down the list. I am /far/ more concerned, for instance, about screwing up my taxes. (probably my biggest fear, as everything else can only take me to zero, in the worst case. Tax debit is forever.) Or, of, say, a serious security incident. That could kill my business and greatly damage my reputation in the process.
Eh, but really? I believe that this "avoid getting sued at all costs" attitude in general leads to suboptimal decisions being made in many different areas; and as a systemic force, it pushes all companies to do things the same way that other companies do them. "Industry best practices" - things like that which are usually code for 'expensive mediocrity' - I don't even think it makes sense for big companies that are worth suing, usually, but big companies are run by managers, not owners, and managers are far more concerned about avoiding blame than they are about anything else.
Really, I think this relative freedom from the fear of lawsuits is a huge advantage I have, and yeah, if I want investors or if I otherwise want to move into management in the corporate world? I'll have to change my tune, but for now? I get to enjoy my freedom.
Internally, I agree with you that one should always take full credit for their work, good or bad (at least verbally...). Externally, one should always remember what context your statement may be taken in, especially the context of a courtroom.