It began with good intentions. Rules to reduce risk. Policies to guide behavior. Laws to ensure fairness.
But as more rules, policies and laws were adopted, none was repealed. Regulations piled up like cordwood. For many, life became a joyless effort to follow the rules.
And because breaking those rules carried penalties, most people hunkered down. Better to do too little than risk too much.
Eventually, though, the bureaucracy collapsed under its own weight, leaving people free to live as they wished.
Within days, new speed limit signs popped up. Within a year, there were even more rules than before.
But as more rules, policies and laws were adopted, none was repealed. Regulations piled up like cordwood. For many, life became a joyless effort to follow the rules.
And because breaking those rules carried penalties, most people hunkered down. Better to do too little than risk too much.
Eventually, though, the bureaucracy collapsed under its own weight, leaving people free to live as they wished.
Within days, new speed limit signs popped up. Within a year, there were even more rules than before.
