I’ve been thinking recently about how even the best of intentions can have unintended consequences. Here are a couple of examples.
DDT, a broad-spectrum pesticide that gained popularity following World War II kills both malicious pests and more benign organisms alike, including bees – the primary pollinators for a multitude of plant species. Pollination is critical for the earth's ecosystems.
Three strike laws intended to reduce crime, increase police fatalities by giving two-time criminals a greater incentive to evade or even fight the police.
The Americans with Disabilities Act gives employers an incentive to discriminate against the disabled by not hiring them in the first place so as to avoid potential ADA claims.
Electrician licensing requirements can increase the incidence of injury due to faulty electrical work by reducing the supply of electricians, thereby encouraging homeowners to do their own electrical work.
I was reminded of the impact of unintended consequences when I came across this 10-minute video entitled The Economics of Sex produced by The Austin Institute for the Study of Family and Culture. I hope you find it as thought provoking as I did.