#but imo the bigger power imbalance is simply the fact that the Doctor has to take responsibility for their safety

[thirddoctor]

I actually don't see the lifespan thing as a huge issue though. Sure, it means their time together will be limited from the Doctor's perspective, but that's also the case with every other relationship they have with humans? As a Time Lord surrounded by shorter lived species, it's just a fact that they will outlive almost everyone they love. idk why it would be more of an issue here than with their friendships or surrogate family relationships?

Also it's a bit weird to me that people act like only, say, Romana or maybe River could be the Doctor's equal because plenty of the other companions are 1. adults 2. perfectly capable of holding their own against the Doctor.