This interview with Michael Lewis, author of The Big Short, discusses the state of the US federal government, focusing on the impact of workforce reductions under the Trump administration and the contrast between the capabilities of civil servants and elected officials. The conversation also touches upon the risks associated with the decline in government competence and the increasingly prevalent issue of gambling addiction fueled by advertising.
Erosion of Government Competence: Significant cuts to the federal workforce under the Trump administration have jeopardized the handling of critical risks, from nuclear safety to disaster preparedness, potentially leading to increased national vulnerabilities. The cuts were made arbitrarily without proper assessment of competency.
The Value of Civil Servants: Lewis contrasts the dedication and mission-driven nature of many civil servants with the self-serving actions of elected officials. He argues that, on average, civil servants are superior human beings and more competent, but their quiet dedication prevents their positive contributions from being widely recognized.
Monetization of the Presidency: The interview highlights the unprecedented monetization of the presidency under Donald Trump, blurring the lines between personal and national interests. This is considered a significant departure from previous administrations and potentially the most brazen abuse of power in American history.
The Threat of Gambling Addiction: Lewis discusses the dangers of the increasingly prevalent sports gambling industry, highlighting its predatory nature, targeting of young men, and the potential for a public health crisis due to the industry's manipulative practices and lack of responsible regulation.
Difficulty in Changing Minds: While acknowledging the challenges, Lewis suggests that humanizing opposing viewpoints through storytelling can help bridge divides and encourage more productive conversations, even if complete persuasion isn't achievable.
