Policy: pay money for dead cobras. First-order…
““Policy: pay money for dead cobras. First-order consequence: cobras hunted and killed, less cobras. Second-order consequence: cobra breeding starts taking place.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Paying for dead cobras reduces their numbers but encourages breeding, showing unintended consequences of incentives.
In simple terms: Incentives can backfire.
Key Takeaway
Consider long‑term effects of policies.
Themes
policy design
unintended consequences
economics
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
policy
analytical
When to use this quote
- wildlife management
- public health
- environmental regulation
Key Concepts
systems thinking
behavioral economics
Questions to Reflect On
- What hidden incentives exist in your plan?
- How can you anticipate second‑order effects?
A Different Perspective
May ignore cultural factors.