I&I - Declining trust in government

In our December edition of Incentives & Instincts, Justin sits down with economist Bryce Ward to unpack the complex and pressing issue of trust in government. With trust levels in government at historic lows, they delve into the historical trends, causes, and consequences of this erosion in confidence. The conversation explores the influence of media, the economic incentives driving counter-institutions, and the polarization of modern politics. Bryce and Justin dissect examples ranging from regulation to public infrastructure projects, illustrating the challenges and successes of government functioning. They also propose pathways to rebuild trust, emphasizing the importance of good governance, efficient execution, and transparent communication.