Significant investments in domestic and international policy frequently yield null results, echoing sociologist Peter Rossi's 1987 observation that the expected impact of major social programs is zero. High-profile efforts—ranging from federal school initiatives to international employment campaigns—have repeatedly failed to move the needle. Conservative priorities have fared no better, with programs like Arkansas Medicaid work rules and relationship counseling achieving none of their central targets. To combat these recurring policy misfires, decision-makers are urged to acknowledge uncertainty before launching sweeping interventions.
Key points
High-profile public programs across diverse political ideologies repeatedly demonstrate z…: High-profile public programs across diverse political ideologies repeatedly demonstrate zero measurable impact on targeted social outcomes.
Sociologist Peter Rossi formalized these widespread policy shortcomings in 1987 through h…: Sociologist Peter Rossi formalized these widespread policy shortcomings in 1987 through his concept known as the Iron Law of Evaluation.
Decision-makers and philanthropists must cultivate procedural humility to openly acknowle…: Decision-makers and philanthropists must cultivate procedural humility to openly acknowledge uncertainty before implementing expansive new interventions.
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Anyway, onto the post!
Before anybody enacts a major social policy or launches any philanthropic programs, they should sacrifice a goat. There ought to be an entire liturgy of grotesqueries, in fact—pricked fingers, names written in blood, robes, candles, chanting, obsidian blades, still-beating hearts, the whole shebang.
Legal counsel for the Mada Masr editor-in-chief requested the recusal of presiding judge Mohamed Mubarak on bias concerns, pushing hearings into mid-November. The case stems from previous in-absentia convictions for managing an unlicensed platform and spreading false reports. This procedural pause unfolds amid heightened state pressure that threatens the operational survival of the country's dwindling independent press.
Electoral authorities responded directly to viral allegations that questioned the tallying processes in multiple state and national races. By publishing constituency-level records and highlighting established verification procedures, the commission sought to counter rumors citing unofficial sources. The move reinforces the formal mechanisms used by candidates and agents to monitor balloting integrity from the polling station to counting centers.
Warsaw confirmed that national border controls across all entry points prohibit Russian citizens from entering for athletic competitions, overriding neutral clearance from the International Ski and Snowboard Federation. This decision directly excludes top competitors from winter stops in Wisla and Zakopane. The move highlights escalating friction between national immigration policies and global sports governing bodies following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.