Institutions try to preserve the problem to which they are the solution (effectiviology.com)

Article summary

The Shirky principle states that institutions will try to preserve the problem to which they are the solution, as their existence hinges on society's continued need for their management. This principle is illustrated through examples such as tax-filing companies lobbying against free tax filing and private prison companies supporting policies that increase incarceration. The principle can also apply to entities other than institutions, including individuals who may resist attempts to automate their work. The article discusses the implications of this principle and how it can lead to unintended consequences, such as the cobra effect.

Main themes

• Institutional self-preservation
• Problem perpetuation
• Unintended consequences
• Government and private sector comparison
• Innovation and progress

What commenters say

• The Shirky principle is a cautionary tale about the dangers of institutional self-preservation and the importance of considering the influence of money and oversight on solutions.
• Some argue that the principle is not universally applicable and that institutions can be designed to avoid perpetuating problems.
• Others believe that the private sector is more prone to problem perpetuation due to the pursuit of profit, while others argue that government institutions are more susceptible to this issue due to lack of external pressures.
• Competition is not a panacea for solving problems and can sometimes reward perverse incentives, leading to unintended consequences.
• Individuals can also fall victim to the Shirky principle, becoming overly attached to their own solutions and resisting change due to ego or investment.
• The principle highlights the importance of humility and objectivity in evaluating solutions and being willing to iterate and adapt to new information.
• Some argue that the principle is not limited to institutions, but can also apply to individuals and their personal projects, and that recognizing this can help individuals re-evaluate their own approaches.
• The discussion around the Shirky principle is often polarized, with some arguing that it is a critique of government institutions and others seeing it as a commentary on the flaws of the private sector.