Cooperation across Genetic Boundaries and the Pitfalls of Overcentralized Systems

Cooperation amongst human beings across genetic and cultural boundaries is a unique feature that sets us apart from other species, allowing us to coexist and plan for the long term. Unlike ants and bees who operate within their genetic boundaries, humans have the ability to cooperate with strangers. Attempting to model complex systems such as the economy or a pandemic from a top-down perspective often leads to flawed assumptions and biases, as these systems are too vast and involve billions of actors. Overcentralized control, as seen in the facetious 'lunch commissioner' example, can result in inefficiency and scarcity. The current trend of economists modeling pandemics and epidemiologists managing the economy reflects a reversal of roles, illustrating a failure to prioritize human life within these systems.