There is nothing wrong, per se, with optimization. The problem is in optimizing things best left alone.
Incidentally, a lot of things are best left alone.
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We fell into the trap of thinking optimised = most efficient, because that's what reduces cost and maximises profit.
But > efficiency = > fragility, so it isn't optimal at all (if you inc. things like stability, sustainability, etc, in definition of "optimal", which we should,
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That's a big part, but there's also the much more personal aspect where, while a minority of overly conscientious people enjoy "managing" every aspect of their lives, most people find it stifling and end up more neurotic just from making the attempt.
Hence the autistic/sociopathic fringe having such a big say in cultural mores (and expectations of employees etc.) drives a lot of people straight into depression.
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I tend to think it's not pernicious as a niche hobby for weirdos and entrepreneurs (who are generally weirdos), but it becomes a big problem when it's normalized.
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