Patterson in Pursuit Markets Fail to Solve the Complexity Problem [Narration]
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Nov 16, 2025 Explore the enigmatic relationship between markets and complexity. Discover how the ham sandwich example falters with intricate products. Learn about hidden risks in additives that only reveal themselves over time. Delve into why short-term profits can fuel dangerous innovations. Understand the limitations of government regulation on market corrections. Finally, uncover the potential for independent safety research as a profitable venture for entrepreneurs, turning failures into learning opportunities.
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Markets Can Still Produce Harmful Goods
- Markets often self-correct but that doesn't guarantee safety for complex products.
- Steve Patterson argues market incentives are insufficient to prevent harmful complex goods from reaching consumers.
The Ham Sandwich Example
- Patterson uses the ham sandwich story to show why simple goods face fast feedback.
- A food seller who poisons customers will quickly be punished by lost sales and reputation.
Complexity Extends Failure Cycles
- Complexity lengthens failure cycles and hides harms that appear decades later.
- Patterson points to additives and systemic pollution as harms markets won't self-discover quickly.