Book · 2021 · Political Science
Sludge
What Stops Us from Getting Things Done and What to Do about It
Why people recommend it
Sludge: What Stops Us from Getting Things Done and What to Do About It by Cass R. Sunstein is an analytical examination of the unnecessary administrative burdens, paperwork, and friction that complicate daily life and prevent individuals from accessing essential services and opportunities. The book was highlighted on an episode of Freakonomics Radio by host Stephen Dubner during a discussion revisiting earlier behavioral economic concepts. Dubner noted that Cass Sunstein, who famously co-authored the influential book Nudge alongside Richard Thaler, also authored this specific volume to address the hidden costs of bureaucratic hurdles and institutional inertia. By bringing up the work, Dubner underscored the ongoing relevance of Sunstein's research into how subtle design choices and complex processes obstruct human agency and efficiency in both public and private sectors. The mention served to connect earlier institutional theories with contemporary problems of systemic friction, providing listeners with a clear framework for identifying and dismantling counterproductive obstacles in modern society.
Every mention
Other mentions (1: passing, ad reads, own books)
“Cass sunstein thaler's co-author on nudge has in fact just published a book called sludge what stops us from getting things done and what to do about it”