The Seven Rules of Bureaucracy

The Seven Rules of Bureaucracy - Loyd S. Pettegrew - Mises Daily: "Rule #1: Maintain the problem at all costs! The problem is the basis of power, perks, privileges, and security.

Teasley correctly points out that problems, not solutions, are the basis of bureaucratic power, perks, privilege, and political security. In politics, the tougher the problem appears, the more resources must be devoted to it. Political careers have been made by bureaucrats promising to fix problems. Bureaucrats feign trying to fix problems while usually making them worse. This is because maintaining the problem creates constituent dependency and allows the bureaucrat to show tangible evidence that he or she is working hard for constituents and their cause. It also allows bureaucrats to spend lavishly and, seemingly endlessly, on new government programs and employees. Examining the three "wars against" created by politicians in the last 50 years provides ample illustration of rule #1."

If you can't figure out the game after reading this, you'll end up starving in the dark wondering what happened...