Efficiency… who knew?

 I have always prided myself on being efficient and there is an entirely selfish reason for it: “The more efficient I am, the less work I need to do.”

So when I first heard of DOGE or Departure of Government Efficiency I didn’t give it much thought. I am biased to think efficiency is a good thing. So this shouldn’t be that bad right?

Then I uncovered an uncomfortable truth about efficiency that I had no idea about… another lesson in being poorly educated I suspect.

An idea sparked recently (with the help of slight intoxication, that I am not condoning!). What happens when a government is “efficient” typically.

I decided to just ask the oracle “ChatGPT” a simple question: “What are some common drawbacks of an efficient government and its typical implementation?”

Sure. An efficient government can have drawbacks such as:

1. Authoritarianism – Centralized power may limit democracy and debate.

2. Lack of Transparency – Streamlining can reduce oversight and increase corruption risks.

3. Rigidity – Optimized systems may struggle with crises or local needs.

4. Weakened Public Services – Cost-cutting can harm welfare programs.

5. Job Losses – Automation and efficiency can lead to layoffs.

6. Privatization Risks – Profit-driven policies may reduce accessibility.

7. Ethical Trade-offs – Efficiency may prioritize short-term gains over human rights.

Would you like specific examples of these issues in practice?

<I was apprehensive to proceed but sure…>

What are some examples? Be as succinct as possible. (Thinking of the readers)

Here are some examples of efficient governments causing issues:

1. China – Rapid decision-making enables growth but suppresses dissent and freedoms.

2. Nazi Germany – Highly efficient bureaucracy enabled atrocities with little resistance.

3. USSR – Centralized planning improved industrialization but created rigidity and inefficiency in adapting to change.

4. Singapore – Strong governance and economic success, but strict laws limit personal freedoms.

Well, I guess I am continuing my education lessons…

A simple word that has many implications, little did I know../

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