

48. Do Good Deeds Invite More Bad Ones?
Apr 18, 2021
Dive into the lighthearted chaos of decision-making at fast-food joints, where even simple choices spark laughter. Discover the 'poop angels'—those who clean up after careless pet owners—exploring the thin line between altruism and enabling bad behavior. Journey through the pivotal choices in life, from partners to parenthood, all served with a side of humor. Unpack the complexities of technology's role in our lives and its impact on democracy, showcasing the importance of personal choices in shaping happiness.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
The Poop Angel
- Angela Duckworth's husband, Jason, addressed a dog poop problem by installing a trash can.
- This inadvertently attracted more dog walkers, highlighting unintended consequences.
Unintended Consequences
- Solutions can have unintended consequences, like incentivizing unwanted behavior.
- Lewinian problem-solving suggests addressing root causes, not just punishing offenders.
Pooper Scooper Laws
- Pooper scooper laws were opposed by animal rights groups, including the ASPCA, in the 1970s.
- They feared that requiring owners to pick up dog poop would lead to increased dog abandonment.