Statecraft How to Build State Capacity
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Oct 3, 2024 Sam Hammond, a Senior Economist focusing on AI policy, and Jen Pahlka, a prominent advocate for improving government through technology, explore the contentious landscape of state capacity. They discuss the ideological divides between left and right and ponder whether AI might render these debates obsolete. The conversation delves into historical lessons from the Progressive Era, bipartisan avenues for reform, and the challenges posed by outdated governance systems, all while emphasizing the critical need for effective technology integration in government.
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Left vs. Right on State Capacity
- The left worries about executive overreach with increased state capacity, while the right often blocks it.
- Both sides must acknowledge trade-offs and collaborate to improve governance.
Air Force Software Update
- Jen Pahlka recounts a story about rigid bureaucratic processes at the Air Force.
- A simple software update was delayed because of a misinterpreted Congressional requirement about ESBs.
AI's Impact on State Capacity
- Sam Hammond argues AI could make current state capacity debates obsolete.
- He suggests AI-driven organizational changes will either force government reform or lead to private sector takeover of government functions.