The Erosion of Wisdom: Why Rules and Incentives Aren't Enough

In a world increasingly governed by rules and incentives, are we losing something essential? Barry Schwartz argues that practical wisdom, a blend of moral will and moral skill, is being eroded by our over-reliance on bureaucracy and standardized procedures. This loss has far-reaching consequences, impacting everything from patient care to education.

The Janitor's Tale: Wisdom in Action

Consider the example of hospital janitors. Their job descriptions focus on tasks like mopping floors and emptying trash, with no mention of human interaction. Yet, some janitors go above and beyond, showing kindness, care, and empathy to patients and their families. They understand when to bend the rules, when to improvise, and how to use their skills to serve others.

• One janitor stopped mopping when a patient was trying to exercise.
• Another avoided vacuuming a visitor's lounge where family members were napping.
• A third rewashed a floor to appease a grieving father.

These acts of wisdom, driven by a desire to do right by others, improve patient care and contribute to a better hospital environment. But such behavior isn't born from a manual; it arises from experience, mentorship, and the freedom to learn from failures.

The Perils of Over-Regulation

When things go wrong, the knee-jerk reaction is often to create more rules and incentives. However, this approach can backfire, creating a downward spiral that undermines moral skill and will.

Rules and the Loss of Moral Skill

Take the example of scripted kindergarten curricula. While intended to prevent disaster, these rigid guidelines stifle teachers' judgment and creativity, leading to mediocrity. Just as jazz musicians need some notes but also the freedom to improvise, professionals need rules but also the autonomy to exercise their wisdom.

Incentives and the Erosion of Moral Will

Incentives, too, can have unintended consequences. A study on nuclear waste dump siting in Switzerland found that offering financial compensation actually reduced public willingness to accept a dump in their community. The introduction of an incentive shifted the focus from civic responsibility to self-interest.

Remoralizing Our World: A Path Forward

So, what can we do to restore wisdom in our society?

• Acknowledge Moral Exemplars: Celebrate and learn from individuals who embody practical wisdom.
• Create Supportive Environments: Foster organizations that encourage moral skill and will.
• Embrace Moral Work: Recognize that any job involving interaction with others is moral work that depends on practical wisdom.
• Be Moral Exemplars: As teachers and mentors, embody the values we want to instill in others.

By paying attention to our actions, the structures of our organizations, and the examples we set, we can cultivate wisdom and create a more virtuous world. It requires a shift in focus, from blind adherence to rules and incentives, to a recognition of the importance of human judgment, empathy, and a commitment to doing what is right.

Tags: wisdom, ethics, society