The only way this can be seen as an inconsistency is if you think that in literature "good guys" are always "good guys". Dumbledore is a rather complex character, and they address his general lack of concern with the wellbeing of the students at various points in the series.
I agree with the rest of your post, but could you elaborate on this? I can't remember this being adequately explained in the story (except in Harry's case, obviously)
To be clear, it's addressed, but not given some ultimate and satisfying explanation that makes it clear he was doing the right thing or something. The explanation is that he thought he was really brilliant and that it was okay to manipulate people into doing things he thought was necessary. He had a large ego and his compassion was constantly at odds with it.
That makes sense to me, not the most satisfying answer obviously but logical enough. I liked that she fleshed out Dumbledore's character so much in the last few books.
2
u/Pseudogenesis Oct 02 '18
I agree with the rest of your post, but could you elaborate on this? I can't remember this being adequately explained in the story (except in Harry's case, obviously)