Commentary
When will we start trusting our fellow Americans once more? When will we allow qualified individuals in positions of authority to make decisions without being tied down by detailed rulebooks and formal procedures?
These are the questions posed by New York lawyer and author Philip K. Howard in his latest book “Everyday Freedom.” Howard emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals in authority to make decisions and actually accomplish tasks, rather than being bogged down by bureaucracy.
The book, “Everyday Freedom: Designing the Framework for a Flourishing Society,” comes at a time when the federal government is faced with the challenge of replacing the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which recently collapsed into Baltimore’s harbor after being struck by a container ship.
Despite the recent accident, Howard’s message remains relevant. He highlights a time when Americans were able to efficiently and effectively build infrastructure, such as the Empire State Building, which was completed in just over a year.
In contrast, modern government initiatives like the $5 billion electric vehicle program have fallen short in terms of results. Howard questions what past leaders like Gen. Brehon Somervell would say about the current state of affairs.
Howard discusses how the legal and social landscape changed in the 1960s and 70s, leading to the implementation of strict rules and procedures that hinder individual authority. He argues that this shift has stifled initiative and spontaneity, replacing them with protocols and behavior codes.
The author advocates for a return to a more streamlined decision-making process, citing examples like former California Governor Pete Wilson’s swift response to the Northridge earthquake and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s efficient handling of a highway overpass collapse.
Howard emphasizes the need to remove unnecessary obstacles and allow competent individuals to take action. He believes that by simplifying processes and trusting capable people, society can achieve greater success.
Overall, “Everyday Freedom” serves as a reminder that overly complex regulations and procedures can hinder progress and limit opportunities. Howard encourages a shift towards a more efficient and effective approach to decision-making in order to build a better future.
Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Please rewrite the following sentence:
“The cat lazily stretched out on the windowsill and closed its eyes.”
The cat leisurely extended its body on the windowsill and shut its eyes.
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